With several ways to travel the great distances in Russia, the convenience and affordability of trains often gets overlooked. Since the train stations in Moscow and St. Petersburg are in the city centers, it’s simple to take a train, which will cut down on inconveniences. However, since there are a variety of train options, including overnight trains, let us guide you in choosing the one that best suits your needs.
Day or Night Train? The Basics
Trains depart daily at all times of the day from both Moscow and St. Petersburg to go between the two cities. For those who travel by day, perhaps the most popular option is the Sapsan. It’s a highspeed bullet train. Another option is the Nevsky Express. Night trains sport romantic names to give a sense of a classic or luxury experience. The Krasnaya Strela, or the Red Arrow in English, the Grand Express and the Megapolis all make this trip. The train rides last between seven and ten hours. You can sleep in a berth, and if traveling on a long trip, you’ll save daytime sightseeing time or an extra hotel fare. Night trains are cheaper in general. Nevertheless, the Sapsan remains a popular option.
Day Trains
Most day trains between Russia’s Capital, Moscow, and the Venice of the North are of the highspeed variety. The 250km/h Sapsan Moscow to St. Petersburg, and the reverse trip, only pause in two to five places. A comfortable four hours on the Sapsan lets you regroup and relax. Meanwhile, the Nevsky Express travels at only 200 km/hr and doesn’t stop. Overall, the trip is about the same on either line. Both highspeed options rival a standard European train. They’re modern and comfortable. However, the tickets are pricier. They range from ₽3000 ($50) to ₽15000 ($235) depending on the class you choose. In the most expensive class, carriages offer leather seats, an individual entertainment system and charging outlets.
The Night Train
If considering taking an overnight train, be sure to consider all of your options. Night trains can be classified as branded (firmenniy) or non-branded. Branded trains have their own names, such as Two Capitals, and have unique designs compared to other trains. Hot meals, better bed linen and restaurant cars make for better service. Trips on branded trains last only seven to eight hours, while non-branded trains last nine or ten.
When purchasing a branded ticket, know that they are also identified by a number, such as № 064A. Three different class options are available on these trains. The lowest class is third, which is called Platskartnyi. It has an open plan with 56 beds. Second class is Kupe, which has two bunk beds. First is Spalny Vagon or SV, which sleeps only two. Tickets range from ₽2400 ($40) to ₽9000 ($140).
Non-branded trains don’t offer first class tickets. They have second and third class, and sometimes a seated option for only ₽800 ($13). Most often, a samovar offers free hot water in the hallway. Third-class or Platskartnyi tickets, cost ₽1500 ($25). Second-class Kupes cost ₽2000 ($31). If you just need to get between St. Petersburg and Moscow as cheaply as possible, an overnight, non-branded train a fine option.
Krasnaya Strela – The Red Arrow
Of all of Russia’s night trains, the most famous and prestigious is the Krasnaya Strela, or the Red Arrow in English. It has a long history. Once upon a time it transported the Communist Elites. To this day, when taking off at 23:55, it plays its own theme song. The carriages are red with yellow lettering, although once they were blue. Woodwork and lush velvet curtains embellish the interior. Tickets range from ₽3000 ($50) to ₽13000 ($205).
The Grand Express
While the Red Arrow dominates in terms of providing historical authenticity, the luxuriousness of the Grand Express is unrivaled among Russian overnight trains. High-quality furniture, an entertainment system and internet are available in every class of ticket. The upper classes also feature one bathroom per compartment, air conditioning, a hot breakfast and more. Fifteen cars provide ample opportunity to book on the Grand Express. Tickets range from ₽2800 ($48) to ₽23000 ($360). If you want to travel as comfortably as possible, the Grand Express is your best bet.
Summary
During the day, the trains breaching the distance between Russia’s two most magnificent metropolises are mostly of the highspeed variety. They’re comparable to most highspeed trains in other countries and don’t offer much history. However, they deliver you the fastest and avoid night-time related inconveniences of sleeping aboard. Meanwhile, night trains are a sort of unique Russian experience. They are also more cost-effective. Although non-branded night trains are the most economical, branded trains like the Red Arrow and the Grand Express provide higher levels of luxury. They also don’t waste sight-seeing time or business hours. Whichever train you choose, have a wonderful time traveling in Russia.
