Trans-siberian rail journeys - Tours to Moscow and St ... · You can add more cities and excursions...

TRANS-SIBERIANRAIL JOURNEYS

2018-2019

www.into-russia.co.uk

C O N T E N T S

Trans-Siberian Railway tour and Lake Baikal p 3

Tsar's Gold Trans-Siberian: Vladivostok to Moscow p 4-5

Baikal Golden Eagle Luxury Express p 6

TRANS-SIBERIAN/ TRANS-MANCHURIAN P 3-6

Classic Trans-Siberian Journey by Public Trains p 8

Tsar's Gold Trans-Mongolian Journey p 9

Tsar's Gold Trans-Siberian: Russia, Mongolia & China . p 10-11

Golden Eagle Luxury Trans-Siberian Journey p 12-13

TRANS-MONGOLIAN P 8-13

Trans-Siberian Rail Journey is one of the most exciting ways to explore

Russia and its neighbours Mongolia and China. Unlike any other holiday it

takes you through the whole of the country and gives you the flexibility of

choice of the stops and places you want to see. The Trans-Siberian Railway

is the longest in the world (longer than the Great Wall of China!) and its

length is more than 5700 miles! This means that the train will take you

through 8 time zones, more than 80 cities and towns and unforgettable

sceneries and cultures.

The most popular routs are the classic Trans-Siberian from Moscow to

Vladivostok, the Trans-Manchurian from Moscow to Beijing, the Trans

Mongolian from Moscow to Ulan Bator and the newest addition - Baikal-

Amur Mainline (BAM).

This catalogue offers you a wide of choice of options for every budget to

make your Trans-Siberian holiday perfect. You can join a group tour to

share your experience with like-minded people and make new friends on

the way or enjoy an independent tour created especially for you ( p 14 ).

For each tour you have an option of extending your city stay, add a flight or

an escorted tour. Just let our travel experts know and they will tailor any

holiday to your needs and interests.

IntoRussia is a tour operator established in 1932 and for more than 80

years we have been delivering excellent tours protected by ATOL and IATA.

We are members of ABTA and offer extra security for every aspect of your

travel.

For more tours including BAM visit www.into-russia.co.uk

TAILOR-MADE TRANS-SIBERIAN P 14

1

T R A N S - S I B E R I A N / T R A N S - M A N C H U R I A N

RAIL JOURNEYS FROMMOSCOW TO VLADIVOSTOK

OR BEIJING (or in reverse)

Trans-Siberian Railway tour and Lake

Baikal

(from £1,085, 14 days)

Tsar's Gold Trans-Siberian: Vladivostok to

Moscow

(from £4,231, 15 days)

Baikal Golden Eagle Luxury Express

(from £8,595, 9 days)

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TRANS-SIBERIAN RAILWAY TOUR AND LAKE BAIKAL

14 days

This Trans-Siberian route is perfect for those wishing to experience the best of Russia and China in one railway adventure. The journey starts in the magnificent capital of Russia, Moscow, takes you to the pure unexplored beauty of Lake Baikal and finishes in the bustling city of Beijing. The journey of contrasts and different lifestyles will unlock the unique beauty and secrets of where the West meets East. You can add more cities and excursions to your trip or spend more days in Moscow and Beijing.

Day 1 Fly to Moscow Welcome to Russia! Arrive in Moscow and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Day 2 Moscow After breakfast set off on your independent Moscow adventure. We recommend visiting the iconic Kremlin with its charming cathedrals, have a walk along the bustling Arbat Street and explore the Metro system. Want to make the day more memorable? Add one of our excursions to your trip! (B) Day 3 Depart Moscow Today you will start your Tans- Siberian adventure. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, after which you will meet your driver, who will take you to the railway station to board your train. (B) Days 4 -6 On board Marvel at the beauty of Russian nature, its small towns and rural villages while travelling through country. You will pass Yaroslavl, the gem of the famous Golden Ring of Russia, Yekaterinburg, historical landmark on the map of Russia, the scenic Krasnoyarsk located on the Yenisei River and many more!

Days 7 Irkutsk

Welcome to Irkutsk, the highlight of Siberia on the Angara river. Check into the hotel and spend the evening at your leisure. Days 8 Listvyanka Today you will set off on a day-trip to the village Listvyanka known as the 'Baikal Riviera'. Enjoy the fresh air, untouched beauty of Lake Baikal and do not forget your camera! (B) Days 9 - 12 On board Board the train early the morning to start your journey to China. Enjoy the changes of scenery behind the window while relaxing in your compartment. Days 13 Beijing Arrive in Beijing in the morning and check into the hotel. Today you have an opportunity to explore the heart of China. To make this day more memorable book a city tour to learn more about this lively city. Day 14 Departure Check-out after breakfast and transfer to the airport.

For more details call us or visit www.into-russia.co.uk

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Return Airport transfers 3-4* accommodation on B&B basis Meals as per programme2nd class train tickets (4-berth compartments) Full Russian visa support

ADD-ONS

Return flights Excursions and activitiesHotel upgradesTrain ticket upgrades Extend of your stay in Moscow or BeijingAdditional stops

GUIDE PRICE 2018-2019

From £1,085pp Based on 2 adults sharing

(the price may slightly fluctuate depending on a season)

Your Route

Lake Baikal

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TSAR'S GOLD TRANS-SIBERIAN: VLADIVOSTOK TO MOSCOW AND IN REVERSE

16 days

Embark on an epic railroad adventure, as you traverse the world’s largest country by train on the legendary Trans- Siberian Railroad. This Trans-Siberian rail journey combines travel on the Tsar’s Gold private train with regular trains, taking you all the way from the Pacific port of Vladivostok to the gleaming capital Moscow (and in reverse). See the most spectacular scenery that Russia has to offer, accompanied by an experienced multi-lingual tour director and a physician travelling on the train. A sophisticated on-board program complements a comprehensive excursion and sightseeing package to make your journey truly memorable.

Day 1 Fly to Vladivostok In the morning, you arrive in Vladivostok, the largest city in Russia’s Far Eastern District. In the afternoon, a guided bus tour of the city includes a Soviet submarine museum and fantastic views of the city from Eagle’s Nest Hill.. (BLD) Day 2 Vladivostok In the morning visit the Oceanarium, where you will learn about the marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Afterwards go on a boat trip around Russia’s largest Pacific port. In the evening you depart on a regular train and are welcomed on board with a cup of tea. Did you spot the 9,288 engraved on the pedestal of the sculpture? That’s how many kilometers separate you from your final destination, Moscow— that’s nearly 5,800 miles! (BLD)

Day 3 Khabarovsk Today you arrive in Khabarovsk, the second largest city in Russia’s Far Eastern District. On a guided bus tour of the city, you visit the Khabarovsk Regional Museum and enjoy the wide sandy beaches of the Amur River. Days 4 Taiga Tuck in to breakfast to fortify yourself before an excursion to the nearby Khechzyr nature reserve. Stroll through lush evergreen landscapes. This is the taiga, the pristine country still home to Siberian tigers. (BLD)

Days 7 Ulan Ude

Your Trans-Siberian train journeys along the green, picturesque valley of the Selenga River. Soon you arrive in Ulan-Ude, the friendly capital of the Republic of Buryatia, Russia, where you stroll through its city streets on a guided tour. (BLD) Days 8 Ivolginsky Buddist Monastery Today explore Ivolginsky Datsan, the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Russia. Head back to town, and before the sun sets, board the Tsar’s Gold private train. Here, you settle into your snug and secure new home for the rest of your Trans- Siberian rail journey. (BLD) Days 9 Lake Bailkal A day dedicated entirely to enjoying the blissful Lake Baikal, the oldest and deepest freshwater lake in the world. You arrive directly at Port Baikal. Relax, take a dip, explore the picturesque villages, and soak up the scenery on a ferry ride. On warm nights, dinner is served as a picnic on the elegant shores of this pristine lake. (BLD)

Days 11 Siberia A day of once-in-a-lifetime views enjoyed from the comfort of your private train. (BLD) Day 12 Novosibirsk hospitality

Yekaterinburg is the historic capital of the ancient Ural Mountain region. Its position on the Asian-European border makes for a city of fascinating influences and combined cultures. You visit the painstakingly preserved city center and fairytale-like Church on Blood, which commemorates the site where the Romanovs, Russia’s last Tsar dynasty, were shot by revolutionists. Your train leaves Asia for Europe.


Days 5-6 Big Country Settle into the rhythm of rail travel, as you head west for the next two days. Freed from the hectic schedule of everyday life, get to know your fellow train passengers, take the time to catch up on your reading or simply enjoy the life-affirming scenery, as the fertile strip of Siberia passes by your window. Along the way you pass the city of Chita at the junction of the Trans-Manchurian and Trans-Siberian Railroads; the town of Svobodny, former site of Stalin-era prison camps; and the town of Birobidzhan in the Jewish Autonomous Oblast. (BLD)

Days 10 Irkutsk You’ve arrived in Irkutsk, one of Siberia’s largest cities. Tour the city’s colourful market, theatre and two- manor site of the Irkutsk local history museum. Have a relaxed dinner in the evening before bed—your hotel room is centrally located. (BLD)

In the charming city of Novosibirsk, you’re welcomed warmly with bread and salt associated with hospitality, and friendship in Russia. You arrive in Siberia’s biggest city at noon and take a tour that includes the majestic river Ob. Overnight on board. (BLD) Day 13 Yekaterinburg

Day 14 Kazan Today is dedicated to the picturesque and historic Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, on the banks of the Volga. Tour the city’s traditional Russian architecture and take in the fascinating stories of the wild and bloody relations that played out between the Tatars, Cossacks and Russians, exactly where you’re standing. Overnight on board. (BLD)

Kazan

Siberian Tiger 4


Return Airport transfers 3-4* accommodation on B&B basisMeals as per programme (B-breakfast, L- lunch, D-dinner)Accommodation as booked on the Tsar’s Gold private trainA two-bed compartment in a regular Russian train from Vladivostok to Ulan-Ude (Single booking available upon request) Full Russian visa support

Return flightsTrain ticket upgrades Extend of your stay in Moscow

WHAT'S INCLUDED

ADD-ONS


From £ 4,231pp Based on 2 adults sharing


Day 15 Moscow Moscow, one of the most vivid, dynamic and richly-historic cities on Earth. Get up close to the otherworldly and world-famous Kremlin grounds and experience its magnificent cathedrals and interiors. After dinner, you take in the opulence and color of Moscow at night on a tour that includes the almost dream-like Red Square and famously palatial subway stations. Relax after your urban adventure in your central and comfortable top-range hotel. (BLD)

Day 16 Moscow, departure Today you will see the surreal and candy-cane Russian masterpieces of St. Basil’s Cathedral and Novodevichy Convent.You will visit the lovingly reconstructed Cathedral of Christ the Savior and pass by the notorious former KGB headquarters, the imposing architecture of the Soviet- era White House and Lomonosov University, before bidding farewell to this bold and charismatic city. Transfer for your flight back home. (B)

Your Route

Ulan Ude

Taiga

5

BAIKAL GOLDEN EAGLE LUXURY EXPRESS

9 days

This fantastic railway journey takes place on the world renowned Golden Eagle Train, taking you from the historic domes of Moscow to the unrivalled natural beauty of Lake Baikal. Enjoy this incredible route that is characterised by beauty, luxury and the exploration of the unique cultures of Russia.

Day 1 Fly to Moscow Arrive in Moscow and transfer to the five-star Ritz-Carlton located in the city centre within walking distance of Red Square and the Bolshoi Theatre. Enjoy a welcome reception dinner, whilst you meet our fellow travellers Why not extend your stay in Moscow with additional nights to explore more of the city at your leisure or have time to take in a performance at the world- renowned Bolshoi Theatre? Tickets need to be pre-booked and are subject to schedule and availability. Day 2 Moscow Your city tour of Moscow takes you to the Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s tomb and more. Early afternoon board the luxurious Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express. After settling into our modern, stylish cabins, enjoy dinner in one of the beautifully designed restaurant cars as our rail adventure eastwards to Lake Baikal begins. Days 3 Kazan We arrive at the picturesque and historic city of Kazan situated on the River Volga, Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan. One of the highlights of this city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After enjoying a relaxing dinner on the Golden Eagle, you may wish to retire to the welcoming bar car where you can enjoy drinks with new friends whilst listening to our resident pianist.

We arrive in Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’, and visit the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture and the Decembrist House museum.

Days 4 Yekaterinburg

We cross the Europe/Asia divide before arriving in the historic city of Yekaterinburg. Your city tour takes you 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.

Days 5 Novosibirsk During your city tour experience the life and character of Novosibirsk’s rich culture where the arts, science and literature predominate.

Day 6 On Board A day to unwind and reflect on the many sights and sounds we have experienced on our journey so far.


WHAT'S INCLUDED

Return Airport transfers 5* accommodationMeals as per programmeGuided tours as per programme Golden Eagle luxury train ticketsFull Russian visa support

ADD-ONSReturn flightsExtend of your stay in MoscowFreedom of choice activities


From £ 8,595pp Based on 2 adults sharing


Your Route

Yekaterinburg

Days 7 Irkutsk

Day 8 Baikal Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of Lake Baikal. It is the deepest lake in the world and holds 20% of the world’s freshwater! In the afternoon, visit Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement at the base of the surrounding hills. Return to Irkutsk and stay at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel (or similar) for your evening.

Day 9 Departure Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to begin your journey home.

Irkutsk

6

T R A N S - M O N G O L I A N

RAIL JOURNEYS THROUGHMONGOLIA

Classic Trans-Siberian Journey by Public Trains

(from £2,299, 14 days)

Tsar's Gold Trans-Mongolian Journey

(from £3,655, 12 days)

Tsar's Gold Trans-Siberian: Russia, Mongolia &

China

(from £3,870, 16 days)

Golden Eagle Luxury Trans-Siberian Journey

(from £12,895, 15 days)


7

CLASSIC TRANS-SIBERIAN JOURNEY BY PUBLIC TRAINS

14 days

The most epic journey of them all, the Classic Trans-Siberian is the ultimate rail tour, evoking a timeless sentiment of mystery and excitement spanning two continents, ten time zones, 87 towns, 16 rivers and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. The atmosphere created by the passengers from all corners of the globe adds to a truly unique experience. An all time favourite, and cultural and social adventure, this fascinating rail tour eastwards will provide you with a once in a life time experience. Sit back and enjoy thousands of kilometers passing by, observing ever-changing landscapes and views through the window of your train.

Day 1 Fly to Moscow Begin your journey in Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow. Transfer to the Cosmos Hotel (or similar) and relax with an evening meal. (D) Day 2 Moscow Broaden your horizons with an introductory city tour of Moscow’s most famous sights including a visit to the mighty Red Square and the Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon – free time. (B)

Day 3 Depart Moscow After breakfast you will embark on a tour to the Kremlin with a visit of a Cathedral and the Armoury. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Moscow Kremlin boasts magnificent gold-domed cathedrals, the gigantic Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell, the Grand Kremlin Palace and many other historic buildings. Visit one of the cathedrals to admire frescoes and icons created by old masters. Visit the Armoury Chamber, home to a rich collection of gold and silver articles, precious stones, and tsar’s crowns and other regalia. After the tour, transfer to railway station to start your Trans-Mongolian adventure.

Days 8 Listvyanka

On the banks of stunning Lake Baikal, take a walking tour of Listvyanka, before spending the rest of the day at leisure. In the evening transfer for your train to Ulan Bator. (B)

Days 10 Ulan Bator After arriving in the capital city of Mongolia and begin your journey to Terelj National Park, take in the scenery of Turtle Rock and discover the beauty of the vast steppe with an exciting horse riding excursion. Learn about ancient nomadic traditions, hospitality and way of life while having lunch with a local family. Continue your Mongolian adventure by sleeping in a traditional yurt. (B, L, D)

Day 13 Beijing After crossing many time zones and fascinating landscapes, you finally arrive in Beijing! Transfer to your hotel to unpack and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Days 11 Ulan Bator Embark on a panoramic city tour and view the renowned sights such as the historic Gandan Monastery, Natural History Museum, Bogd Khan Winter Palace, Zaisan Hill and Sukhe Bator Square. Afterwards transfer to the Khabu Hotel. (B, L) Day 12 Depart Ulan Bator Enjoy the sunrise this morning as you wake up early for breakfast. In the morning, you will be transferred to the railway station to board the train. (B)


WHAT'S INCLUDED

Return airport transfers Twin hotel accommodation on B&B basis Meals as per programme Guided tours as per programme 2nd class train tickets (4-berth compartments) Full Russian visa support

ADD-ONSReturn flights Extend your stay in Moscow or BeijingAdd St Petersburg




Your Route

Mongolian Yurt

Day 4-6 On Board These days are spent relaxing aboard the train, enjoying the unique Trans- Siberian experience.

Day 7 Irkutsk/Listvyanka Welcome to Irkutsk, the starting point of Lake Baikal expeditions! After lunch, discover Irkutsk with a city tour then travel to the Listvyanka settlement and visit the Open Air Ethnographic Museum. You will spend the night in thr Legend of Baikal hotel (or similar) in Listvianka. (B, L)

Day 9 On Board Enjoy landscape scenery from the train and share stories of your adventure so far with your fellow travellers.

Day 14 Departure As your epic adventure comes to an end transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

An extended 16-day version of this tour is available. The tour follows the same route with an addition of Yekaterinburg on days 4-5. The price starts from £2,488

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TSAR'S GOLD TRANS-MONGOLIAN JOURNEY

12 days

Experience the unique charms of Ulan Bator, the dynamic capital of Mongolia. Then get a taste for the breadth of Russian life, from the solitude of Lake Baikal’s shores to the vibrant bustle of Moscow’s streets. Our trips are accompanied by an experienced multi-lingual tour director and a physician travelling on the train. A sophisticated on-board program complements a comprehensive excursion and sightseeing package to make your journey truly memorable.

Day 1 Fly to Ulan Bator Arrive in Ulan Bator and transfer to your hotel. Relax, refresh and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 Ulan Bator Today visit the painstakingly restored Buddhist Gandan Monastery and the historic Choijin Lama Temple. Enjoy evening performances of dynamic and captivating traditional Mongolian music (optional). (BLD) Day 3 The Mongolian Alps Today you experience the stunning natural beauty of the Mongolian Alps. Picnicking in a yurt in the beautiful outdoors is the perfect way to dine. Try the Mongolian specialty of lamb in milk, with Kumis for those feeling brave: a drink of fermented mare’s milk, known as the beer of the nomads. Afterwards, have an insight into the horsemanship so central to Mongolian culture and see a traditional wrestling match and an archery performance. In the evening, your private train tours onward to the Russian border. (BLD) Day 9 Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg is positioned on the Asian- European border.You visit the painstakingly preserved city center and fairytale-like Church on Blood, which commemorates the site where Russia’s last Tsar dynasty was shot by revolutionists. Your train leaves Asia for Europe. (BLD)

Days 7 Siberia A day of once-in-a-lifetime views enjoyed from the comfort of your private train. Mountains of forest and mist glisten in the sunlight. Rivers crashing along jagged rocky banks. Huge, imposing skies, shifting in rhythm with the tracks. Entertaining lectures on local customs and culture double as social get-togethers between now firm friends, complete with Russian canapés and hospitality. (BLD)

Day 8 Novosibirsk In Russia, bread is associated with hospitality, and salt with friendship. In the charming city of Novosibirsk, you’re welcomed warmly with bread and salt in this tradition. You arrive in Siberia’s biggest city at noon and take a tour that includes the majestic river Ob. (BLD)


WHAT'S INCLUDEDTsar's Gold train tickets 3-4* accommodation in Ulan Bator, Irkutsk and Moscow Excursions and entry fees as per programmeA physician on board the train All transfersMeals as per programmeEntertainment and culture: daily introductions to the country, people and customs





Your Route

Mongolian horsemanship

Day 4 Ulan Ude Your Trans-Siberian train journeys along the green, picturesque valley of the Selenga River. Soon you arrive in Ulan- Ude, the friendly capital of the Republic of Buryatia, Russia, where you stroll through its city streets on a guided tour. (BLD) Day 5 Baikal A day dedicated entirely to enjoying the blissful Lake Baikal You arrive directly at Port Baikal, where there are plenty of opportunities to capture some perfect shots as you travel the Circum-Baikal Railway. On warm nights, dinner is served as a picnic on the shores of the lake. The perfect end to a relaxing day. (BLD)

Day 11 Moscow Get up close to the otherworldly and world-famous Kremlin grounds and experience its magnificent cathedrals and interiors. After dinner, you take in the opulence and color of Moscow at night on a tour that includes the almost dream-like Red Square and famously palatial subway stations. Relax after your urban adventure in your central and comfortable top-range hotel. (BLD)

Day 6 On Board You’ve arrived in Irkutsk, one of Siberia’s largest cities. Tour the city’s colourful market, theatre and the Irkutsk local history museum. Have a relaxed dinner in the evening before bed. (BLD)

Day 10 Kazan Today is dedicated to Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan. Tour the city’s traditional Russian architecture and take in the fascinating stories of the local Kremlin. You learn about the wild and bloody relations that played out between the Tatars, Cossacks and Russians exactly where you’re standing. (BLD)

Day 11 Moscow Today you see the surreal and candy-cane Russian masterpieces of St. Basil’s Cathedral and Novodevichy Convent. You visit the lovingly reconstructed Cathedral of Christ the Savior and pass by the notorious former KGB headquarters, the White House and Lomonosov University. Transfer for your flight back home. (B)

9

TSAR'S GOLD CLASSIC TRANS-SIBERIAN JOURNEY FROM MOSCOW TO BEIJING AND IN REVERSE

16 days

Experience one of the greatest travel adventures. Your journey along the Trans-Siberian Railway, one of the world’s most fascinating train routes, is even more interesting, comfortable, and entertaining with our privately chartered train. This grand private train journey from Moscow to Beijing via Lake Baikal and Mongolia is your chance to fulfil the dream of a lifetime.

Day 1 Fly to Moscow You are greeted at the airport by your tour director and accompanied to your hotel. Our “City of Lights” tour shows you around the beautifully illuminated Russian capital. You stroll across the famous Red Square with your travel director and take a short trip on the underground to view several of Moscow’s particularly beautiful metro stations. Afterwards, you retire to the comfort of your hotel and have dinner. (D) Day 2 Moscow In the morning take a tour of Moscow, including the grounds the Kremlin and its magnificent cathedral from tsarist times. Toward evening, you are greeted aboard your private train prior to departure. A relaxed get-together in the dinning car offers the chance to meet your fellow travellers and learn more details about your private train. (BLD)

Day 6 On Board Your train crosses the wide Yenisei River and rolls on through Siberia. The train’s chefs once again demonstrate their skills as they serve the guests Russian specialties in a “tsar’s feast”. A vodka tasting accompanied by clever toasts offers you a very enjoyable opportunity to combine pleasure and Russian hospitality. (BLD)

Day 5 Novosibirsk You arrive in Novosibirsk, the heart of Siberia, where you are welcomed in the traditional Russian fashion with bread and salt. During a short city tour, you experience the most Soviet of all cities during your journey. You see the enormous Trans- Siberian Monument and the mighty Ob River. You spend the night aboard the train. (BLD)


WHAT'S INCLUDEDReturn airport transfers Twin hotel accommodation on B&B basis Meals as per programme Guided tours as per programme Tsar's Gold train tickets Full Russian visa support





Your Route

Day 3 Kazan In the morning you arrive in Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan. Take a tour of the Kazan Kremlin (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) with its wonderful panoramic view over the Volga, where you learn about the turbulent history of the relationship between the Tatars, the Cossacks, and the Russians. Your train resumes its journey eastwards in the evening. (BLD)

Day 7 Irkutsk Today your train reaches Irkutsk, the capital of Eastern Siberia in tsarist times. During your city tour you see, among other things, the picturesque Siberian wooden houses and a memorial to Tsar Alexander III (the initiator of the Tran-Siberian Railway), which was erected in 2003 where the Trans-Sib Obelisk previously stood. After lunch you take an excursion to an informative open-air museum with a focus on life and work in historical Siberia. You spend the night in a 4 star hotel in Irkutsk. (BLD)

Day 4 Yekaterinburg Your train stops in Yekaterinburg, the historical capital of the Urals. The city is remembered as the place where the Russian tsar Nicholas II and his family were murdered in 1918. During a brief tour you see the Cathedral of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood, which was built in 2003 in commemoration of that tragic historic event, and the city centre so attractively restored in 2009. Back on board, you continue on your journey through the vast steppes of western Siberia. (BLD)

Kremlin

Metro

10

Day 8 Lake Baikal Travel to Listvyanka, a Siberian village on the shores of Lake Baikal. From the village, a boat brings you across the lake’s deep waters to Port Baikal, where your private train is waiting. You then travel for several hours directly alongside Lake Baikal, on the original route of the Trans-Siberian Railway. Your train halts for several hours at a particularly scenic spot, for you to truly enjoy the majestic calm of this unique natural wonder. Dinner is served as a picnic on the shores of Lake Baikal, weather permitting. You spend the night aboard the train. (BLD) Day 9 Ulan Ude The journey continues along the banks of Lake Baikal and then through the splendid Selenga Valley and the wild solitude of eastern Siberia’s mountainous steppes. Take a tour of Ulan Ude during an intermediate stop there. Spend the night aboard the train. (BLD)

Day 13 Beijing You arrive in the hustle and bustle of Beijing in the morning. After transferring to your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to do with as you please. You spend the night in a hotel in Beijing. (BL)

Day 12 Crossing the Gobi Desert Around noon, you arrive at the Mongolian- Chinese border, where your chartered Chinese train is waiting. The Russian private train cannot continue towards Beijing because of the different track gauge in China. Your train reaches the Chinese capital in approximately 16 hours. The Chinese train does not include wagons in the Nostalgic Comfort or Bolshoi categories. You spend the night aboard the train. (BLD)


Day 10 Ulan Bator In the morning you arrive in Ulan Bator. During your city tour you see the impressive Gandan Buddhist Monastery and the odd Choijin Lama Temple. Beer gardens are very popular in Mongolia, and your evening includes a visit to the city’s best. Afterwards, you have the unique chance to attend a performance of traditional Mongolian folk arts, including throat singing, horse-headed fiddle playing, national costumes, and dances (tickets are € 14/ $ 15, to be paid on site). (BLD) On request, we can organise alternative lodging in a yurt in the beautiful landscape of the Mongolian Alps (supplement € 35/ $ 40).

Square, and some of the city’s contemporary architectural achievements, such as the new “Bird’s Nest” Olympic stadium and several futuristic sky scrapers. In the afternoon, you are able to enter the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace, and view its numerous temples and halls. You spend the night in your Beijing hotel. (BL)

Day 11 The Mongolian Alps After breakfast a bus brings you to Terelj National Park, east of Ulan Bator. Here you get to see the nomadic herdsmen’s exotic settlements of tradition tents, horse herds, and scraggly yaks, a type of wild Tibetan cattle. A small Mongolian horse-riding demonstration is put on for you and you enjoy a picnic lunch served in these splendid surroundings. In the evening you continue on aboard your train towards China. (BLD)

Ulan Bator at night

Day 15 The Great Wall of China and Peking Duck Your tour today takes you to the Great Wall, the eighth wonder of the world. The giant wall extends for more than 6000 km through the countryside. On the way you visit the Ming Tombs, the burial site of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors, with its impressive Spirit Way. In the evening you enjoy a farewell dinner of world-renowned Peking Duck. You spend the night in your Beijing hotel. (BLD)

Day 16 Departure After breakfast, you transfer to the airport. (B)

This is a rare experience and a dream come true for nature lovers.

Day 14 China A tour lasting several hours takes you to Beijing’s most beautiful and important sights, including the photogenic Temple of Heaven with its park, the huge Tiananmen

Gobi desert

11

GOLDEN EAGLE LUXURY TRANS-SIBERIAN EXPRESS

15 days

Embark upon the world's greatest railway journey. Travelling 6,500 miles from mysterious Moscow to the culturally rich Ulan Ude and venturing east to the military port of Vladivostok; this tour is the best way to experience the vastness and grandeur of Russia. After a day of sightseeing relax in the lap of luxury on board the Golden Eagle, choose from Silver, Gold or the exclusive Imperial Suites

Day 1 Fly to Moscow Arrive at Moscow Airport, where you are met and transferred to the five- star Ritz-Carlton. Located in Moscow city centre, and within walking distance of Red Square and the Bolshoi Theatre, guests will discover a classic and sophisticated ambience within this luxury hotel. We enjoy a welcome reception dinner this evening, whilst you meet our fellow travellers and anticipate the epic 15 day voyage that lies ahead. Why not extend your stay in Moscow with additional nights to explore more of the city at your leisure or have time to take in a performance at the world- renowned Bolshoi Theatre? Tickets need to be pre-booked and are subject to schedule and availability. Day 2 Moscow Visit 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. Explore Red Square, an iconic symbol of Russia’s former military and political might with its eclectic mix of fascinating architecture, such as the ornate St Basil’s Cathedral’s magnificent onion- domed spires, the beautiful facade of the world famous GUM department store, constructed in Tsarist times, and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb. With our Freedom of Choice touring option you may instead wish to visit the famous State Tretyakov Gallery (National Museum of Fine Art) or travel out of the city centre to Sergiev Posad, home to one of the most beautiful monasteries in Russia and the historical and spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church (subject to train schedule). Upon arrival at Moscow Kazansky Station, you will be greeted in the magnificent 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. Your car attendants will escort you to Platform 1 where a military brass band is playing and the Golden Eagle awaits.

Days 3 Irkutsk

Situated on the River Volga, the picturesque and historic city of 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 the city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage. As Kazan is the birthplace of one of Russia’s most famous opera singers, Feodor Chaliapin, 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.

Days 4 Yekaterinburg Founded 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. Our Freedom of Choice programme will also offer activities such as a walking tour of the city, or explore the intriguing Soviet military past in a visit to Yekaterinburg Military Museum which displays fragments of the U2 American spy- plane flown by Gary Powers that was shot down in this area in 1960 during the Cold War. 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


WHAT'S INCLUDEDReturn Airport transfers 5* accommodation Meals as per programme Guided tours as per programme Golden Eagle luxury train tickets Full Russian visa support

ADD-ONSReturn flights Excursions and activitiesHotel upgradesTrain ticket upgrades Extend of your stay in Moscow or BeijingAdditional stops


From £12,895 pp Based on 2 adults sharing


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. Alternatively, south of the city you could visit Novosibirsk’s excellent Railway Museum on our Freedom of Choice tour. The museum displays locomotives and rolling stock from the late 1800s, including carriages of the Tsars, through to the Soviet era. Or choose to go to 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.

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Day 7 Irkutsk Visit the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city of Irkutsk. Explore 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, and we recreate the atmosphere of that time with a champagne reception and private concert. You can 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 wish to visit a traditional Russian Dacha (summer house) or an urban apartment to get an insight into the everyday life of an average Russian family. Day 8 Lake Baikal

Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of Lake Baikal and is 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. 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 the line. There will be plenty of opportunities for photographs as the train winds its way along the lake. This will be an unforgettable part of our journey. Weather permitting, we stop in an extremely picturesque location by the lake for photographic opportunities and 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, including freshly smoked omul fish, prepared by our own chefs 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 that offers some spectacular and panoramic hillside views of the lake below.

Day 10 Ulan Batar Our Trans-Siberian adventure takes us into Mongolia and a visit to its capital, Ulaan Baatar. We start the tour at Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most important Buddhist Monasteries housing a community of over 500 monks. At 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 Sukhbaatar Square we visit the National Museum where we learn about the country’s intriguing history. We’ll 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 speciality cashmere. We will also enjoy a performance of traditional Mongolian throat singing and contortionists.


Day 11-13 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 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 14 Vladivostok After travelling through 8 time zones and covering a staggering 6,600 miles (10,600kms) along this iconic railway, the Golden Eagle pulls into its final destination, 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. Our hotel in Vladivostok, where we stay for one night, is the four-star Hotel Hyundai Day 15 Departure Following breakfast, you will be transferred to Vladivostok Airport to begin your journey home Ulan Bator

Your Route

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Want to see the best of Russia but tired of conventional group tours? Create your own route which will allow you to choose any stops on the way and select the number of dates in the cities of your choice! Pick the dates, decide on where you want to start your journey, build your route and we will take care of everything else! Free visa support included with every tour.

Approximate travelling time and prices

TRANS-SIBERIAN TAILOR MADE

Step 1 - Select your dates Select the dates convenient for you Step 2 - Pick your desired destinations You can find the list of key destinations below Step 3 - Decide on where to begin your journey Depending on your location and plans you can start in Moscow, St Petersburg, Vladivostok, Ulan Bator or Beijing Step 4 - Chose the type of accommodation 3, 4, 5 - star options are available

Step 5 - Let us know e-mail us on [email protected]

Key Destinations Along The Route

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