A spotlight on Russia

As the world’s largest nation takes centre stage to host the FIFA World Cup™, we have put together our Top 5 luxury train journeys in Russia aboard our five-star train, the Golden Eagle, as featured in the BBC’s World Cup Match of The Day opening titles.

Each journey offers a unique exploration of this magnificent country, with summer and winter departures in 2018/19 to choose from.

1. Trans-Siberian

Moscow – Vladivostok | 15 days | May – September, 2018/19

“Undoubtedly the world’s greatest railway journey, passing through eight time zones and travelling an incredible distance of 6,500 miles (11,000 kms) through Russia and Mongolia"



2. Caucasian VI

Moscow – North Caucasus – Moscow | 15 days | September 29 – October 13, 2018

“Returning to the area of our very first Russian rail tour in 1992, we cover 3,500 miles (5,700 kms) from Moscow down to the North Caucasus and along the warm waters of the Black Sea coast, hauled entirely by restored 21 Soviet Era steam locomotives.”



3. Winter Trans-Siberian

Vladivostok – Moscow | 15 days | February 24 – March 10, 2019

“Admire the iconic winter wonderland scenery on the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences including snowmobiling and dog sledding on a frozen Lake Baikal, and horse-drawn sleigh rides in one of Russia’s oldest communities.”



4. Arctic Explorer

St. Petersburg – Kirkenes – Moscow | 12 days | February 1 – February 12, 2019

“Take in the beautiful cities of St Petersburg and Moscow before exploring deep into the Russian and Norwegian Arctic Circle in pursuit of the magnificent Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).”



5. Persian Odyssey

Tehran – Tashkent – Moscow | 20 days | October 15 – November 3, 2018

Tehran – Tashkent | 17 days | October 15 – October 31, 2018

“This pioneering journey culminates in Russia’s magnificent capital, Moscow, after exploring the remarkable treasures of Persia and the ancient trading cities of the Silk Road.”