Traveling across cities within Russia, including neighboring countries like Belarus and Finland (updated : 2014), can be conveniently done in two ways: By train or By plane. However, the most popular method is by train due to the comfort and convenience it offers. Train travel allows passengers to board trains from centrally located train stations in the heart of the city, eliminating the need to travel several kilometers outside the city to catch a flight. There are multiple train trips available to meet different preferences and requirements, with trains departing from the origin station and arriving at the destination station on time according to a reliable schedule. The ticket prices are reasonable, taking into account the suitable fare and the excellent onboard services that provide great comfort for relaxation. If one chooses to take an overnight sleeper train, they can sleep on the train and arrive at their destination in the morning, ready to explore without delay. This option not only saves on hotel expenses (as typically, sleeper train tickets are more affordable compared to domestic flight tickets), but also saves on travel costs from within the city to the airport. Traveling across cities by sleeper train is, therefore, the most preferred method for tourists, especially on the Moscow – Saint Petersburg route, which offers multiple train services throughout the day.

In addition to long-distance train travel, when it comes to exploring rural areas or different provinces, tourists also prefer using train services. This is due to the limitations and relatively high cost of traveling by car, as well as the less favorable condition of roads in Russia, attributed to the country’s geographical constraints. Moreover, the ticket prices for rural train services are significantly cheaper, and the train schedules are highly punctual, making it easier for travelers to plan their rural adventures. The following information outlines the various types of trains available and the procedures for using their services.

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1. Long Distance Intercity Train

There are two main types of long-distance trains: high-speed trains (Sapsan: Сапсан) and regular trains (Red Arrow: Кра́сная стрела́).

1.1 High Speed Train

In Russian, it is pronounced as “Sapsan.” It operates on the Moscow-Saint Petersburg route and is a high-speed train. It reaches a maximum speed of approximately 250 kilometers per hour and takes about 4 hours to travel between Moscow and Saint Petersburg (a distance of approximately 750 kilometers). The train offers seating in two classes: Business Class and Economy Class. The ticket prices vary based on the train’s speed. Business Class tickets range from around 4,200 to 6,500 rubles per person (approximately 75 to 115 USD), while Economy Class tickets cost approximately 2,500 to 3,500 rubles per person (around 45 to 60 USD).

High Speed Train (SAPSAN : Сапсан)

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Business class seats in SAPSAN

Economy class seats in SAPSAN

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1.2 Regular Train

Regular Train or commonly known as Sleeper Train, as it often departs from the origin station at night and arrives at the destination station in the morning, is the most preferred type of train service among tourists. It is particularly suitable for backpacking-style travel in Russia, striking the perfect balance between comfort and affordability. Sleeper trains are available on almost all routes within Russia (including the renowned Trans-Siberian route) and take approximately 7 to 8 hours on the Moscow-Saint Petersburg route. The service classes can be broadly categorized as follows:

First Class (SV, derived from Spalny Vagon) or Luxury Class (Люкс) is a compartment-style service with 9 private rooms per carriage, each room featuring 2 beds. It offers meal services and provides well-decorated rooms and beds, living up to its name of “luxury.” For example, on the Moscow-Saint Petersburg route, the price per trip ranges from approximately 12,000 to 30,000 rubles per person (around 210 to 520 USD), depending on the type of carriage, room category, travel period, and services provided.

Second Class (Купе) or Coupe is the most popular class among tourists. It is favored for its relatively affordable price and the privacy provided by compartment-style accommodations. Each carriage has a total of 9 rooms, with 4 beds in each room. The ticket prices for the Moscow-Saint Petersburg route are approximately 2,200 to 3,000 rubles per person per trip (around 38 to 52 USD), depending on the travel period. This class offers a comfortable and budget-friendly option for travelers to relax and enjoy their journey. 

Third Class (Плацкартный) or Platzkart, also known as the Open Compartment, features sleeping berths without individual compartments like the First and Second Classes. This class has limitations in terms of privacy and comfort during the journey. Each carriage accommodates a total of 54 berths. The ticket prices for the Moscow-Saint Petersburg route are approximately 1,000 to 1,200 rubles per person per trip (around 18 to 22 baht), depending on the travel period. While it may lack some privacy and comfort, the Third Class offers an affordable option for travelers looking to experience train travel and interact with fellow passengers during the journey.

For every regular train, there is a restroom located at the end of each carriage, and hot water is provided free of charge in all carriages. Additionally, there is a dining car available in the middle of the train, offering food for sale.

Regular Train (Sleeper Train) : Single Deck and Double Decks
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First Class – Sleeper train (Люкс)

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Second Class – Sleeper Train (Купе)

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Third Class – Sleeper Train (Плацкартный)

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2. Sub – Urban train

Suburban trains are short-distance trains that emphasize passenger pickup and drop-off at every station for regular train services and only at major stations for express trains. When traveling within a distance of no more than 100 kilometers from Moscow, suburban trains are often the first choice for tourists. They are considered cost-effective, safe, and allow for flexible scheduling. Suburban trains operate throughout the day, and on popular routes, there are trains available from around 5AM until midnight, with high frequency. During certain hours, there can be up to five train options to choose from. The service provided by suburban trains is standard seating and unreserved tickets. You can simply purchase a ticket and board any train heading towards your destination. The seating is not assigned, so you can choose any available seat.

Sub-urban Train from Moscow to Sergiev Posad

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Interior of Sub-urban train in Moscow

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Written By : SHIPY SIWARIT TIASUWATTISETH

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