Russia is a land of vast and diverse landscapes, ranging from the frozen expanses of Siberia to the picturesque lakes of the Ural Mountains and the rich cultural heart of its European cities. Traveling by train is one of the most immersive and scenic ways to experience the country, as it allows you to witness its remarkable diversity firsthand. Whether you’re journeying through remote forests, traversing snow-capped mountains, or exploring lakeside vistas, Russia offers some of the most breathtaking train routes in the world. Here are the most scenic train rides in Russia that you can’t afford to miss.
1. Trans-Siberian Railway: Moscow to Vladivostok
Arguably the most famous train journey in the world, the Trans-Siberian Railway offers an extraordinary way to cross Russia from west to east. This 9,000-kilometer route stretches from Moscow, the country’s capital, to Vladivostok on the Pacific coast. The sheer length of the journey means that passengers experience a wide variety of landscapes, from dense forests and remote mountains to vast steppe and picturesque rivers.
What Makes It Scenic?
- Siberian Wilderness: As you travel through Siberia, the landscapes become increasingly remote and breathtaking. The vast taiga (boreal forest), sweeping valleys, and snow-capped mountains create a true sense of being in the heart of nature.
- Lake Baikal: A highlight of the Trans-Siberian Railway is the opportunity to travel along the shores of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding hills offer some of the most spectacular views on the route.
- Changing Landscapes: The journey covers multiple climates and environments. From the cultural richness of Moscow to the historical cities like Kazan and Yekaterinburg, the natural beauty shifts from verdant fields to the rugged wilderness of the Ural Mountains and the Siberian expanses.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to travel the Trans-Siberian Railway is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and the long daylight hours provide ample opportunity to soak in the views.
2. The Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM): Siberia’s Remote Frontier
The Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM) is a less-traveled, more rugged alternative to the Trans-Siberian Railway, cutting through the heart of Siberia. This line runs parallel to the Trans-Siberian but takes you through more isolated, wild regions that are rarely visited by tourists. The BAM is known for its untamed beauty and remote locations, making it perfect for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
What Makes It Scenic?
- Siberian Wilderness: The BAM cuts through some of the most remote areas in Siberia, offering passengers views of dense forests, dramatic river valleys, and snow-covered peaks.
- Lake Baikal’s Lesser-Known Shores: While the Trans-Siberian Railway runs alongside Lake Baikal’s western shore, the BAM offers views of the lake from the east, where the untouched wilderness gives a more raw, unspoiled experience of this iconic body of water.
- Mountain Passes: The route takes travelers through high-altitude mountain passes with panoramic views, offering an ever-changing landscape of rocky cliffs and serene rivers.
Best Time to Travel
The BAM is best enjoyed in late spring to early autumn (May to September), as the remote nature of the route can make winter travel challenging due to the cold and harsh conditions.
3. The Circum-Baikal Railway: Around Lake Baikal
The Circum-Baikal Railway is a short but incredibly scenic route that circles the southern part of Lake Baikal, offering one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. This 85-kilometer stretch was once part of the Trans-Siberian Railway but now operates as a heritage route, allowing passengers to take in the beauty of Lake Baikal up close.
What Makes It Scenic?
- Lake Baikal: The Circum-Baikal Railway provides unmatched views of Lake Baikal, with the train hugging the shore of the lake for much of the journey. The shimmering blue waters, surrounded by steep cliffs and verdant forests, create a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop.
- Historical Stops: Along the way, passengers can stop at quaint villages and explore the region’s history, including the remnants of old stations and tunnels built in the early 20th century.
- Remote Beauty: The journey provides a rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s most pristine ecosystems. The natural beauty of the area, with its forested slopes and hidden bays, makes this route a photographer’s dream.
Best Time to Travel
The Circum-Baikal Railway is best traveled during the summer months (June to September), when the weather is warm and the views of the lake are clear and stunning.
4. The Kola Peninsula: Murmansk to the Arctic Circle
Located in the far north of Russia, the Kola Peninsula offers one of the most unique and remote train journeys. The route from Murmansk to the Arctic Circle takes travelers to the edge of the polar world, where the landscape is dominated by rugged coastlines, snow-covered terrain, and the stark beauty of the Arctic.
What Makes It Scenic?
- Arctic Landscape: As you head north, you’ll experience the dramatic change from forested landscapes to the frozen tundra, with fjords, snow-covered peaks, and the endless expanse of the Barents Sea.
- The Midnight Sun: If you travel in summer, you’ll have the rare opportunity to witness the midnight sun, where the sun never fully sets, casting an ethereal glow over the icy landscape.
- The Northern Lights: During winter months (September to April), the Kola Peninsula is one of the best places in Russia to catch the magical aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, as the train travels through this remote part of the country.
Best Time to Travel
Summer (June to August) is the best time to experience the beauty of the Arctic, but for those seeking the Northern Lights, winter months (September to March) are ideal.
5. The Trans-Mongolian Railway: Moscow to Beijing via Mongolia
The Trans-Mongolian Railway is a branch of the Trans-Siberian Railway that heads south from Moscow through the Mongolian steppe before continuing to Beijing, China. This route offers an exceptional combination of Russian, Mongolian, and Chinese landscapes, making it one of the most fascinating and scenic train journeys in the world.
What Makes It Scenic?
- The Mongolian Steppe: The journey through Mongolia is especially breathtaking, with the train crossing vast, flat expanses of grassland dotted with herders and traditional yurts. The endless horizon and clear skies create a sense of awe as you travel through the heart of Mongolia.
- Gobi Desert: The train cuts through the iconic Gobi Desert, where you can witness the barren, wind-swept beauty of one of the world’s most desolate landscapes.
- Chinese and Russian Borderlands: The final leg of the journey introduces you to the varied landscapes of northern China, including the rolling hills and lush countryside as you approach Beijing.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to travel the Trans-Mongolian Railway is during the summer months (June to August) when the temperatures are mild, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
6. The Trans-Kamchatka Railway: Kamchatka Peninsula
The Trans-Kamchatka Railway is an off-the-beaten-path journey through one of the most remote and untouched regions of Russia—the Kamchatka Peninsula. This peninsula, famous for its volcanic landscapes and rugged wilderness, is one of the last truly wild frontiers in Russia.
What Makes It Scenic?
- Volcanic Peaks: The Kamchatka Peninsula is home to an array of active volcanoes, and the train route offers sweeping views of these majestic peaks as you travel through the region.
- Remote Wilderness: The journey takes you deep into the heart of Russia’s wild east, where you’ll pass by dense forests, glacial rivers, and pristine lakes.
- Wildlife: Kamchatka is famous for its wildlife, including brown bears, sea otters, and migratory birds. Depending on the season, you may spot some of these incredible animals from the comfort of your train seat.
Best Time to Travel
Due to the remote nature of Kamchatka, summer (June to September) is the ideal time to travel when the weather is more favorable for exploration.
Conclusion: Russia’s Scenic Train Routes Offer Unmatched Beauty
Russia’s train routes offer some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. Whether you choose the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway, the remote Baikal-Amur Mainline, or the Arctic adventure on the Kola Peninsula, you are sure to be captivated by the sheer diversity and beauty of the Russian wilderness. Each route provides a unique way to experience this vast country, with jaw-dropping views and a deeper connection to its natural and cultural heritage. For train enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure, these scenic train journeys are not to be missed.
