Established in 2007 by GW Travel, Golden Eagle Luxury Trains are often considered the pinnacle in private Russian train travel. Moving beyond the average rail tour, Golden Eagle train tours create luxury experiences that provide a glimpse into Russia’s diverse culture journeying from the historic Muscovite capital of Moscow in the West into the depths of Siberia and through to Vladivostok on Russia’s far eastern shores.

This post will provide what you need to know about one of the world’s most luxurious train experiences, including the best times to go, costs and what to expect when travelling the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express.

Why the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express is the most luxurious train in the world

Golden Eagle Express Dining Carriage

From its opulent dining carriages to magnificent suites, the Golden Eagle takes train travel to a whole new level. The train is home to an onboard luxury restaurant and kitchen with an attention to fine dining. Guests can sit back and enjoy the best of local cuisine while live music sets the mood. The bar lounge carriage offers the perfect after-dinner retreat and serves a wide range of cocktails, champagne and fine wines. However, what really sets this train apart is the exquisite, unique landscapes you will come across along the way from densely forested areas, surging rivers, pristine freshwater lakes and rolling mountains to the conflicting cityscapes of Russia from the vibrant, gilded domes that adorn churches to the cold, brutalist architecture of the Soviet era.

Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express Schedule

The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express has 9 or 10 scheduled stops depending on whether you are travelling East or Westbound:

Best times to go on the Golden Eagle train

The standard Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian runs from May to September, although only on selected dates. The best time to go is in May or September at the start or end of the season, however as there is limited availability, you will often still need to book a few months in advance to ensure your place.

There is also the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express Winter Wonderland tour available in February which covers the same journey from Moscow to Vladivostok or vice—versa. This option is perfect for travellers who prefer the Winter weather and would like to take advantage of the Winter sports and explore the frozen landscapes around Lake Baikal.

How much does the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express cost?

Gold Class Suite on the Golden Eagle Express

The Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express is split into three categories including Silver, Gold and Imperial-class which cater to different price brackets. The price you pay will depend on your chosen package and time of travel, as well as if you have paid for any additional extras or customisations. The standard prices you can expect to pay are as follows:

• Silver Class: £12,895 - £20,295.
• Gold Class: £15,895 - £20,295.
• Imperial Suite: £24,395 - £54,995.

What’s included in the Golden Eagle train ticket price?

The Golden Eagle is not short of features and includes an onboard prestigious restaurant with complimentary live music as well as a private bar area. Aside from a suite that will include everything you would expect in a luxury hotel room, you can experience a variety of tours in some of Russia’s best destinations including Lake Baikal, Perm and Ulan-Ude all included in the price.

See our ‘on-board the Golden Eagle’ page for a detailed list of what is included in the price for each class.

Views of Lake Baikal from the Golden Eagle Express

Booking tickets for the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express

Booking your tickets in advance is essential as there are only a select few trains that leave throughout the year. Please contact us directly by phone or at trains@realrussia.co.uk to book your Golden Eagle Express experience online today!

To learn more about our full range of Trans-Siberian tours including Golden Eagle alternatives, please see our Trans-Siberian tour comparison page.