Trans-Siberian Express: The highlights to look out for
With a range of great journeys to choose from, you are officially spoilt for choice in terms of the exciting destinations you can explore on a Trans-Siberian rail journey. As a leading provider of Trans-Siberian trips, we are responsible for supplying unforgettable experiences. Our UK based team works closely with local agents; guides and hoteliers to ensure a truly personalised service. Our itineraries take travellers from all points of the globe to the most far reaching; breathtaking destinations. In this blog post, we take a closer look at just some of the highlights to look out for on your upcoming Trans-Siberian trip.
St Petersburg
As the second largest city after Moscow, St Petersburg often gets overlooked when compared with Russia’s capital. Its grandeur and history never fails to amaze visitors. A starting point on many of our rail cruises, St Petersburg provides a captivating view of this mysterious country’s imperial heritage as well as a number of off the beaten track attractions to explore.
Vladivostok
Taking you from one side of Russia to the other, the sights and attractions of Vladivostok couldn’t be more different. As the unofficial capital of the Russian Far East, Vladivostok boasts striking architecture; plenty of charm and one of the most beautiful ocean fronts on the planet. Vladivostok ultimately provides an authentic representation of city life in Russia. The city isn’t particularly touristy but there’s plenty to explore, as Traveller (@TravellerAU) describes:
“Vladivostok isn’t short on attractions – including Yul Brynner’s house (where the star of The King and I was born in 1920), an aquarium and 130 subterranean forts built between the 1880s and early 1900s to defend the port against Japanese and American forces. But finding them can be tricky. Seeking a postcard view of Vladivostok, I head for the funicular to Eagle Hill lookout.”
Ulaanbaatar
The capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar is a far cry from the sparse; stunningly scenic and secluded rural areas of the country. Yet the city offers its own charms. Vibrant; busy and cosmopolitan, in Ulaanbaatar you can explore the history of one of the coldest capitals by day – and party hard at night. For more advice about when to travel to Ulaanbaatar, please read our essential guide.
Beijing
The choice between visiting Beijing or Shanghai is a question debated by many travellers. Although you don’t necessarily have to choose between the two on our Trans-Siberian trips, each offers an inspiring cityscape and a unique taste of China.
Home to the Forbidden City; Great Wall of China; Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven, Beijing is where China’s past; present and future can be seen on show. Described by many as big and brash, the city is also fascinating and vibrant thanks to its thriving arts scene; architecture and nightlife. You’ll find lots of amazing places to eat in Beijing, with a choice of hip eateries and fun; buffet-style experiences.
Hong Kong
With a bevy of lush lookout points and family-friendly attractions, Hong Kong is certainly a city with a difference and a must-see destination for those travelling on the Trans-Siberian Express. It may have some of the tallest buildings in Asia but Hong Kong also provides uniquely lush; green landscapes, delivering the best of both worlds for those who love nature and city living.
