Essential Moscow to Beijing Trans-Siberian Railway

Arrive in Moscow and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Explore Moscow at leisure or book optional excursions. With a wealth of world-class sights on offer including the Kremlin, St Basil’s, Red Square and the Tretyakov Gallery, it won’t be difficult to keep busy. Take an evening transfer to the railway station for the train to Irkutsk. (B)

From the comfort of your compartment, watch some of Russia’s most historically important cities pass by, including Yekaterinburg, Omsk and Novosibirsk.

On the train travelling to Irkutsk passing through Yekaterinburg, Omsk and Novosibirsk.

On the train travelling to Irkutsk passing through Yekaterinburg, Omsk and Novosibirsk.

Arrive in Irkutsk, transfer to the hotel and check in for two nights. (B)

Embark on a full-day excursion to the small Siberian village of Listvyanka, scenically perched on the shores of the great Lake Baikal. In the summer months travel one way by hydrofoil, returning by car via the Taltsy Ethnographic Museum. (B,L)

Transfer from the hotel to Irkutsk Railway Station for the train to Mongolia. Spend two nights aboard, and stop at the Russian border town of Naushki before continuing to Mongolia. (B)

On the train travelling to Ulaanbaatar. (B)

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and enjoy a tour of the city with your local guide. See the main highlights of the city: the Gandan Temple - city's main Buddhist centre, the central city square with a grand statue of Genghis Khan and the Zaisan Memorial, an elevated hill on the city's edge providing a panoramic view of Ulaanbaatar. Visit the Museum of National History introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to modern era.  In Ulaanbaatar stark Soviet structures and chaotic modern shopping streets contrast dramatically with the serenity of quiet monastery courtyards. (L,D)

Transfer by car to Terelj National Park, located some 80km outside Ulaanbaatar where most visitors spend at least one night in one of the many ger camps located within the park. En route stop at the Genghis Khan Statue. In 2008, this giant statue of Emperor of the Mongols riding a horse was erected fifty-four kilometres from the capital Ulaanbaatar. At forty meters high, it is the world’s largest equestrian statue. 

Once in the park visit the famous Turtle Rock – an 80ft tall granite formation, enjoy hiking around the area, go horseback riding or try archery.’  A sightseeing tour of the area usually includes a visit to a nomadic family to learn about their lifestyle, sample local produce and help erect a traditional ger. (B,L,D)

After a morning exploring Terejl Nationl Park and a local lunch, transfer back to Mongolia's bustling capital. In the evening, enjoy a folk concert with dinner. (B,L,D)

Transfer to the railway station for the overnight train to Beijing.

End the epic journey on arrival in Beijing, China’s historic capital, which begs to be explored.