My Tour Favourites (0)
Classic Trans-Mongolian Eastbound


Your 17-day experience includes a trip on one of the world’s most fascinating railways, combined with several days in Moscow, around Lake Baikal, and in the Mongolian capital, Ulaanbaatar.
Overview
Our most popular Trans-Mongolian experience! The classic Trans-Mongolian Eastbound is a truly unique cultural journey taking you from Moscow through the sprawling forests of Siberia and the rolling dunes of the Gobi Desert to Beijing, while stopping off in several spectacular destinations along the way. This magnificent rail tour is the perfect choice for those wanting an immersive cultural experience that goes beyond travelling from A to B. Your 17-day experience includes a trip on one of the world’s most fascinating railways, combined with several days in Moscow, around Lake Baikal, and in the Mongolian capital, Ulaanbaatar.
A transfer with a personal guide to accompany you to the train on the start of your journey
All relevant Trans-Siberian, Trans-Mongolian and Trans-Manchurian rail tickets
Breakfast at all hotels, homestays and other accommodation
Russian letter of invitation and visa support documents for China and Mongolia
Transfers for all departures and arrivals at each city
Itinerary


Moscow
Russia’s official capital, Moscow, is the political and religious heart of the country. The city has the highest density of billionaires, is the world’s most populated inland city and boasts six out of Europe’s ten tallest buildings. It continues to be a major tourist destination in Europe growing year on year with famous attractions including Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, and the Kremlin.
Day 1
Arrival in Moscow
Welcome to Moscow! Your driver will meet you at your arrival point and take you to your hotel ready for check-in.
You will have the rest of the day to explore the city for yourself or relax in your hotel.
Arrival Transfer
Free Time
Scenic Surrounds
Day 2
Sightseeing tour of Moscow
After breakfast, you will be met bright and early by our expert guide who will provide an overview of your day in Moscow. You will then be taken on a half day tour by car where you will get to explore Moscow, including the famous Red Square with the Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, the Alexander Garden and the Eternal Flame, Lenin’s mausoleum, the memorial to Soviet cosmonauts, and the famous artists’ quarter of Old Arbat.
You will have the rest of the day free to explore Moscow for yourself.
Breakfast
City Tour
Expert Guide
Red Square
Moscow Kremlin
St Basil’s Cathedral
Lenin’s mausoleum
Alexander Garden
Old Arbat
Day 3
Free time in Moscow
Today, you will have the day free to explore the wonders of Moscow for yourself. Take advantage of the fantastic restaurants, museums and shopping districts around the city, or spend your time relaxing at the hotel, the decision is yours.
If you are stuck for things to do, we offer a wide range of excursions in Moscow ranging from a couple of hours to full day experiences.
Breakfast
Free Time
Scenic Surrounds
Souvenir Shopping
Day 4
Your Trans-Mongolian experience begins
After a leisurely breakfast, you can enjoy a late check-out so you can do any last-minute exploring or shopping before beginning your Trans-Mongolian journey.
Relax and explore Moscow, or take an optional excursion, before packing, and preparing, to meet your driver for a private transfer to the railway station in the evening.
Our guide will advise, and assist, in purchasing provisions for the train if desired, accompany you to the platform, ensure that everyone is settled into their cabins, and answer any last-minute questions.
Breakfast
Free Time
Transfer to Train
Expert Guide
Travel to


Trans-Mongolian
A variant of the traditional Trans-Siberian Railway, the Trans-Mongolian is one of the best ways to reach and explore Mongolia and passes between Moscow and Beijing visiting the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar on the way. The train journey itself offers diverse, spectacular views from the alpine forest regions of Siberia to the vast, arid Gobi Desert before skipping through the lush landscapes of China.
Day 5
Depart Moscow and travel on the Trans-Siberian Railway
You will spend the next three days travelling across Russia. Your journey will begin travelling through European Russia heading past the cities of the Golden Ring, the great industrial city of Kirov and finally the ex-military city of Perm, before crossing through the Ural Mountains and into Asia.
Passing through the cities of Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk, you will traverse the incredible forests of Siberia, passing the mighty Altai region and crossing the River Yenisei at Krasnoyarsk, before heading deep into Asia.
Day on the Train
Night on the Train
Prominent Landscape
Travel to


Listvyanka
A small settlement on the Western shore of Lake Baikal, Listvyanka is a highly popular tourist area known for its distinct local culture, fish market, and breathtaking hiking trails that venture around the edges of the lake. The settlement was formed near the point where the Angara River leaves Lake Baikal and is home to the Baikal Museum, with dedicated exhibits to the fauna and wildlife that can be found in the area.
Day 8
Arrival in Irkutsk
After arriving in Irkutsk, your driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel in nearby Listvyanka village on the shores of Lake Baikal.
You will have some time to freshen up and enjoy a meal at the chalet, before having the rest of the afternoon as free time to settle in and stretch your legs. The day will be rounded off with a traditional Baikal dinner, followed by an optional banya (Russian sauna) experience.
Dinner
New Destination by Train
Lake Baikal
Prominent Landscape
Free Time
Scenic Surrounds
Day 9
Free time in Listvyanka
Today, you are free to explore Listvyanka for yourself. The village has plenty to offer from picturesque nature hikes, to relaxing by the lakeside, or visiting one of the regional markets or museums.
If you are stuck for choice, we have a range of optional excursions in Listvyanka that are the perfect way to spend your day.
Breakfast
Free Time
Optional excursions
Prominent Landscape
Scenic Surrounds
Travel to


Irkutsk
Irkutsk is one of the largest cities in Siberia and the most important hub for tourism in the Lake Baikal region. As opposed to many of the more industrially shaped cities in Siberia, Irkutsk has a long history as a cultural centre and has been home to scientists, writers, artists, and political activists such as the Decembrists. It is also a key destination on the Trans-Siberian Railway.
Day 10
Irkutsk city tour by car
After a relaxing day in Listvyanka, your driver will pick you up from your hotel for a brief city tour of Irkutsk by car. You will get to see the most interesting locations in the city, including the beautiful Russian Orthodox churches, the Polish Cathedral (the only Siberian Gothic-style building), traditional hand-crafted wooden houses, and the infamous Decembrists’ House.
At the end of the tour, you will check into the centrally located hotel in Irkutsk.
Breakfast
City Tour
Religious Buildings & Monuments
Polish Cathedral
Decembrists’ House
Scenic Surrounds
Free Time
Souvenir Shopping
Day 11
Departure from Irkutsk
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel in Irkutsk and meet your driver who will take you to the train station where you will continue your journey along the Trans-Mongolian Railway.
You will pass through Ulan-Ude, the home of Russian Buddhism, before heading across the Mongolia border towards Ulaanbaatar.
Breakfast
Transfer to Train
Day on the Train
Border crossing
Prominent Landscape
Travel to


Ulaanbaatar
The capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, was founded in the 17th century as a Buddhist monastic centre and is the country’s largest city. It is situated in the Tuul River valley, bordering the Bogd Khan Uul National Park and close to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. The city has a rich heritage and is home to many famous tourist attractions including the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, Zaisan Memorial, Choijin Lama Temple, and the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan.
Day 12
Exploring Gorkhi Terelj National Park
After arriving at Ulaanbaatar station in the morning, you will have the chance to freshen up and get some breakfast before being taken by your driver to the Ger camp where you can enjoy the beauty of the world famous Gorkhi Terelj National Park.
You will stop for lunch, which is followed by some time walking in the hills, an excursion to Turtle Rock and a meditation centre, before returning for an evening meal and overnight stay.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
New Destination by Train
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Turtle Rock
Prominent Landscape
Ger camping experience
Cultural Immersive Experience
Scenic Surrounds
Day 13
Visiting the Genghis Khan Statue Complex
After breakfast, you will walk around the surrounding area and visit a local herdsman’s family where you will learn more about the daily life of Mongolia’s nomads.
You will stop for lunch at the ger camp, then your driver will take you to the famous Genghis Khan Statue Complex that includes a museum and scenic views from the top of the statue.
After your visit, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Ulaanbaatar where you will spend the evening.
Breakfast & Lunch
Genghis Khan Statue Complex
Scenic Surrounds
Meet the local herdsman’s family
Cultural Immersive Experience
Food & Drink Experience
Prominent Landscape
Transfer
Day 14
City tour of Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, you will have the morning to explore, before embarking on a half day tour on which you will have the opportunity to see the city’s unique monuments.
Your day will end with a visit to Zaisan Hill offering panoramic views of the city.
Breakfast
Free Time
Souvenir Shopping
City Tour
Scenic Surrounds
Zaisan Hill
Prominent Landscape
Day 15
Free time in Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, you will be free to explore the distinctive charm of Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding region or relax.
Why not take a look at a few of our best Ulaanbaatar excursions you could arrange while there?
Breakfast
Free Time
Scenic Surrounds
Souvenir Shopping
Day 16
Crossing the Gobi Desert
Today, you will leave Ulaanbaatar behind, catching your early morning transfer for your train to Beijing before travelling on through the majestic Gobi Desert towards China.
Later in the evening, the train will reach the Chinese border before continuing to Beijing.
Breakfast
Transfer to Train
Day on the Train
Prominent Landscape
Border crossing
Travel to


Beijing
The capital of China, Beijing, has a long history stretching back over 3000 years. The city is known for its unrivalled culture and architecture and is home to no less than 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the world-famous Forbidden City complex and the Badaling Great Wall of China. Beijing is one of the ‘Four Great Ancient Capitals of China’ and has been the political centre of the country for 800 years.
Day 17
Arrival in Beijing
Throughout the morning and afternoon, you will pass through rural China as well as mountainous river valleys, before continuing past the amazing Great Wall of China.
You will finally arrive in Beijing, where your transfer will take you to your hotel if you wish to stay in Beijing for a few more days, the airport, or the railway station.
New Destination by Train
Departure Transfer
Where you can stay
A hotel can be the make or break of any experience, and we understand that choosing the right hotel is important to our travellers. Check out our range of hotels ahead of time, and learn more about our standard 3-star options and the luxury 5-star upgrades that are available in the destinations you will be visiting.
Please note that the selection of hotels included here are examples of where you may stay on your tour, we will pick the best option for you based on your travel requirements.
You may also like
Not quite found what you are looking for? Real Russia are committed to finding you the best tour for your needs. Whether you are after an activity-packed immersive experience or a relaxing vacation with plenty of free time, we have you covered. Here, is a list of tours you may also like, hand-picked by us based on your chosen theme and dates.
from per person
from per person
from per person
from per person
from per person
from per person
Dates & Rates
Please select the amount of travellers in your group and language requirement of your guide.
Please select a date
£
-
£
per person
-
£
per person
-
£
per person
*This tour’s total cost is an estimate, based on travel costs prior to tickets being released. The price is subject to fluctation of up to 10%.† Based on 2 people sharing a twin room.
More information
What’s included
A transfer with a personal guide to accompany you to the train on the start of your journey
Accommodation as part of the tour
All relevant Trans-Siberian, Trans-Mongolian and Trans-Manchurian rail tickets
All tours are COVID-19 secure and offer flexible booking options. Visit our Covid-19 information page to find out more
Full day guided tour: Genghis Khan Statue Complex and Nomad Life
Full day guided tour: Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Half day guided tour with excursions: Irkutsk
Half day guided tour with excursions: Moscow
Half day guided tour with excursions: Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Breakfast at all Hotels, plus a dinner at Listvyanka / Baikal and other meals , which are dependent on your preferred excursions
Russian letter of invitation and visa support documents for China and Mongolia
Transfers for all departures and arrivals at each city
What’s not included
Flights or other travel arrangements prior to tour joining point
Masks or hand sanitizers
Meals, unless specified in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as souvenir shopping, or extra food and drink not included in the itinerary
Visa processing and service costs
Travel Tips
All travellers are asked to check the vaccination requirements before travel. Visit our Vaccines and Health page to find out more
Any dietary or allergy requirements will need to be disclosed before the start of the tour
Carrying a water bottle with you is recommended
Medication should always be taken with you and kept on your person
Please ensure that you keep any personal documents and valuables on your person at all times
WIFI will be available at most of the hotels, although mobile coverage may vary in rural areas
Your local guides will recommend stops where you can go souvenir shopping during your tour
Special notes
There are no special notes for this tour
Suggested reading
Enrich your travel experience with our list of top recommended books from specialist travel guides to compelling novels. Whether you are looking for something to pass the time on the train, or want to get to grips with the local history, reading is essential to turning your trip into a fully-fledged experience.
Beijing
The ultimate guidebook to Beijing that no tourist can go without! Lonely Planet’s Beijing is packed full of almost everything you need when travelling to any destination from how to get around the city, the best places to eat, what you need to see while you are there, cultural highlights and more. In addition to its noteworthy insider tips, this guide includes detailed maps that are invaluable to even the most seasoned traveller.
China
The ultimate guidebook to China that no tourist can go without! Lonely Planet’s China is packed full of almost everything you need when travelling to any destination from how to get around the country, the best places to eat in its most popular cities, what you need to see while you are there, cultural highlights and more. In addition to its noteworthy insider tips about key attractions such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, this guide includes detailed maps that are invaluable to even the most seasoned traveller.
Mongolia
The ultimate guidebook to Mongolia that no tourist can go without! Lonely Planet’s Mongolia is packed full of almost everything you need when travelling to any destination from how to get around the country, the best places to eat in its most popular cities, what you need to see while you are there, cultural highlights and more. In addition to its noteworthy insider tips about key attractions such as the Winter Palace of Bogd Khan and the Gadan Monastery, this guide includes detailed maps that are invaluable to even the most seasoned traveller.
Moscow
The ultimate guidebook to Moscow that no tourist can go without! Lonely Planet’s Moscow is packed full of almost everything you need when travelling to any destination from how to get around the city, the best places to eat, what you need to see while you are there, cultural highlights and more. In addition to its noteworthy insider tips, this guide includes detailed maps that are invaluable to even the most seasoned traveller.
Russia: Lonely Planet
The ultimate guidebook to Russia that no tourist can go without! Lonely Planet’s Russia is packed full of almost everything you need when travelling to this vast country from how to get around, the best places to eat in its most popular cities, what you need to see while you are there, cultural highlights, currency and more. In addition to its noteworthy insider tips about key attractions such as the Moscow Kremlin, Lake Baikal and the Romanov sites, this guide includes detailed maps that are invaluable to even the most seasoned traveller.
Extras & Upgrades
Extras
Customise your experience with our spectacular range of tailor-made tour extras. If you have some free time during your tour and are unsure how to spend it, then our extras may be just what you are looking for, with various activities ranging from an hour long to a full day. Simply, let us know when booking your tour and we can arrange this for you.
Upgrades
Enhance your travel experience with one of our available tour upgrades. Whether you are looking to go first class on the train or swap your standard hotel for a luxury 5-star option, our Sales team are on-hand to help. Simply, let us know when booking your tour and we can arrange this for you.
View Map
Visa Information

Single Entry Tourist Visa

Single Entry Tourist Visa
