Why book with Logo
Our Expertise
Travel Specialist since 1932
Our Service
UK offices and support while on holiday
First Class Guides
Learn from local experts with real passion
Peace of Mind
Full ATOL, IATA, ABTA protection
The Baikal Golden Eagle Luxury Express
9 days, 8 nights from 8595 £
Bucket list rail journey from Moscow to Irkutsk
This fantastic railway journey takes place on the world renowned Golden Eagle Train, taking you from the historic domes of Moscow to the unrivalled natural beauty of Lake Baikal. Enjoy this incredible route that is characterised by beauty, luxury and the exploration of the unique cultures of Russia. Starting off in the historic Moscow you can take the chance to visit popular attractions such as Red Square and St Basil’s Cathedral and its fantastic spires! From here you board the plush Golden Eagle Express, where the railway journey really begins, travelling to famous Russian cities Kazan, Ekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Irkutsk before reaching the final destination of Lake Baikal. With the Baikal Express Tour it’s not about reaching the final destination, it’s about the experience of the railway journey, which is truly magical.
- Introduction to your journey
- Your Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Journey Departures and Prices
- What's Included
- Booking conditions
- Book
The Route
MOSCOW • Kazan • Ekaterinburg • Novosibirsk • IRKUTSK
Moscow
A truly iconic, global city, Moscow is the 860 year-old capital of Russia. There are dozens of reasons to come. Being one of the most breathtaking capitals in the world, Moscow has a wide range of cultural landmarks. We suggest exploring them all.
Kazan
Yekaterinburg
Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great, Yekaterinburg is the third largest Russian city and the capital of the Urals. The cultural and architectural influences of European and Asian civilisations come together in this fascinating and cosmopolitan landscape. The last Russian Emperor, Nicolas II Romanov and his family spent their last days here. On 19th July 1918 the whole family was executed by the Bolsheviks in the basement room of the Ipatiev’s estate. Nowadays there is the Cathedral On Spilt Blood which provides a powerful insight into the turmoil of the Russian Revolution.
Novosibirsk
Novosibirsk is situated in the south part of West Siberia, on the banks of Ob River. The city takes the third place by population in Russia after Moscow and St Petersburg. It's a center of Russian arts, science and literature. 14 most prestigiuos universities of the country are located here. In the heart of the city there is an architectural marvel -the largest opera house in the world.
Lake Baikal
Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of the Pearl of Siberia. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and holds 20% of the world’s freshwater. It stretches for 636 km longwise and 80 km widthwise. The Baikal’s maximum depth is 1,637 m. It is known as a "laboratory of biodiversity" as it is home to nearly 3,000 species of animals and plants, many of which are found nowhere else, such as a unique breed of freshwater seal.
Irkutsk
Irkutsk, capital of South Baikal, is one of the largest Siberian cities and was a key stop for caravans from Buchara and even China. Today Irkutsk became a center of gold-mining production and is developing fast. In the city you can discover unique examples of Irkutsk architectural heritage, such as “White house”, which was first a palace of the merchants Sibiryakovs, then a residence of East Siberia governor-general.
Maps
Video
EASTBOUND ONLY: MOSCOW TO IRKUTSK
| DAY 1, MOSCOW, RUSSIA |
 Arrive at Moscow Airport, where you are met and transferred to the five-star Ritz-Carlton. Located in Moscow city centre, and within walking distance of Red Square and the Bolshoi Theatre, guests will discover a classic and sophisticated ambience within this luxury hotel. We enjoy a welcome reception dinner this evening, whilst you meet our fellow travellers and anticipate the epic 9 day voyage that lies ahead. Why not extend your stay in Moscow with additional nights to explore more of the city at your leisure or have time to take in a performance at the world-renowned Bolshoi Theatre? Tickets need to be pre-booked and are subject to schedule and availability. |
| DAY 2, MOSCOW, RUSSIA |
 Our morning city tour of Moscow principally takes us to Red Square, an iconic symbol of Russia’s former military and political might. Here we see an eclectic mix of fascinating architecture, such as the ornate St Basil’s Cathedral with its magnificent onion-domed spires, the grandeur of The Kremlin and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb. Early afternoon sees us boarding the luxurious Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express. After settling into our modern, stylish cabins, we enjoy dinner in one of the beautifully designed restaurant cars as our rail adventure eastwards to Lake Baikal begins. |
| DAY 3, KAZAN, RUSSIA |
 We arrive at the picturesque and historic city of Kazan by mid-morning. Situated on the River Volga, Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan. Here we have the opportunity to see for ourselves its rich tapestry of history and culture. One of the highlights of this city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the walls of this ancient citadel we will explore its stunning mosque and onion-domed cathedral. After enjoying a relaxing dinner on the Golden Eagle, you may wish to retire to our welcoming bar car where you can enjoy drinks with new friends whilst listening to our resident pianist. |
| DAY 4, YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA |
 We cross the Europe/Asia divide before arriving in the historic city of Yekaterinburg. Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great, the third largest Russian city is also the capital of the Urals. The cultural and architectural influences of European and Asian civilisations come together in this fascinating and cosmopolitan landscape. Our city tour takes us to the poignant site where the Romanov, Nicholas II of Russia was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Now a church dedicated to their memory, this site provides us with a powerful insight into the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. |
| DAY 5, NOVOSIBIRSK, RUSSIA |
| A modern ‘Soviet’ city, we experience the life and character of Novosibirsk’s rich culture where the arts, science and literature predominate. Our city tour takes us to the Opera House. An architectural marvel, it houses two permanent ballet and opera companies and is the largest opera house in the world. In front of the Opera House, we visit an imposing statue of Lenin – a marvellous opportunity to have your photograph taken with this iconic political leader. |
| DAY 6, ONBOARD, RUSSIA |
| A day to unwind and reflect on the many sights and sounds we have experienced on our journey so far. Chat to your fellow passengers, perhaps learn a few words of Russian or simply enjoy the ever changing landscape outside your window as it unfolds. |
| DAY 7, IRKUTSK, RUSSIA |
 We arrive in Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’, and our visit today takes in the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture that has given many of this region’s buildings such a distinctive and unique appearance. Next, we visit the Decembrist House museum which is dedicated to the memory of the exiled aristocrats who were forced to flee to this remote outpost after the failed revolution of 1825. Here we enjoy a private concert before returning to our waiting train for dinner. |
| DAY 8, LAKE BAIKAL, RUSSIA |
 Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of Lake Baikal. For five hours we wind our way through tunnels along cliff hugging tracks above the lake with a vista of snow capped peaks along the far shore forming a picture-perfect backdrop. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and holds 20% of the world’s freshwater. Also known as the ‘Pearl of Siberia’ it is home to a unique breed of freshwater seal and over fifty species of fish including omul which we will be serving in the dining car for some of our meals. In the afternoon, we visit Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills. Tonight we return to Irkutsk and stay at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel (or similar) for your final evening. |
| DAY 9, IRKUTSK, RUSSIA |
| Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to begin your journey home. |
The Golden Eagle Express
Travelling on the Golden Eagle is an exclusive way to truly take in the vastness and grandeur of the world's largest country.
The Golden Eagle entered service in 2007 and the 12 sleeping cars on the train are separated into three classes: Imperial, Gold and Silver Class.
In the restaurant, the chefs use the finest of local ingredients for lunch and dinner. From traditional and world renowned 'Borsch', to caviar and Omul fish unique to Lake Baikal.
Quality wines from around the world compliment the meals, along with mineral water, soft drinks and naturally, vodka. After a long day sightseeing, unwind in the newly designed and stylishly built Bar Car.
Imperial Suites are the most spacious cabins available onboard the Golden Eagle measuring 120 sq ft (11.1 sq metres) and benefiting from a large and luxurious double bed as well as a lounge area with dressing table.
Imperial Suite facilities include a private en-suite bathroom with power shower and the luxury of underfloor heating; individual air-conditioning; wardrobe; DVD/CD player with LCD screen; complimentary fully stocked minibar; safe; small library and two large picture windows to watch the world go by.
Exemplary service starts with a complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon champagne when you board the train to toast the start of your wonderful adventure.
Imperial Suite guests will also benefit from the option of a private guide and car service in most of the places we visit along the route, the inclusion of drinks from the standard and premium bar list in the Bar Lounge Car, a laundry service and room upgrades to the next available category at the hotels which are featured in the itinerary.
Specification
- Sleeps 2 in King Size bed
- Sitting area
- Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
- Recessed lighting and wardrobe
- Dressing table
- Personal safe
- Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating
- Bathrobes, slippers, hairdryer and toiletries provided
- Complimentary minibar
- DVD/CD player with LCD screens
- Towels and linens changed every second day or daily on request
- Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water available at all times
- In-cabin dining available on request
- Drinks from the Bar Lounge Car included from the Standard and Premium Bar List (excluding Premium Wine List)
- Private car and guide options in selected cities for off-train excursion programme
- Laundry service included
At 77 sq ft (7 sq metres) Gold Class cabins are extremely well-proportioned and have everything from a private bathroom with separate power shower cubicle and underfloor heating to a DVD/CD player, LCD screen, safe, individual air-conditioning, wardrobe, large picture window as well as featuring a double lower bed and a single upper bed.
Guests in Gold Class benefit from complimentary drinks off the Standard Bar List in the Bar Lounge Car.
Exemplary service starts with a complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon champagne when you board the train to toast the start of your wonderful adventure.
Specification
- Sleeps 2 in either lower standard double bed or bunk style
- Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
- Recessed lighting and wardrobe
- Personal safe
- Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating
- Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries provided
- DVD/CD player with LCD screens
- Towels and linens changed every second day or daily on request
- Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water in cabin available at all times
- Drinks in the Bar Lounge Car included from the Standard Bar List
- Laundry service available at an additional charge
Silver Class cabins, which are more compact at 60 sq ft (5.5 sq metres), feature a small double lower bed and a single upper bed as well as DVD/CD player, LCD screen, safe, individual air-conditioning, wardrobe and large picture window.
The Silver Class cabins have private en-suite wet room with a washbasin, toilet and shower.
Specification
- Sleeps 2 in lower small double bed or bunk style
- Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating
- Recessed lighting and wardrobe
- Personal safe
- Private en-suite bathroom with 'wet-room' style shower and toilet
- Bathrobes, slippers and toiletries provided
- DVD/CD player with LCD screens
- Towels and linens changed every second day or daily on request
- Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water available at all times
- Laundry service available at an additional charge
DEPARTURES 2019
EASTBOUND - MOSCOW - PORT BAIKAL - IRKUTSK (9 DAYS)
2019 DEPARTURES DATES | Silver Class | Gold Class | Imperial Suite | ||||
| Twin | Single | Twin | Single | Twin | Single | ||
May 5 - May 13 | 8595 £ | 12695 £ | 10595 £ | 15495 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Jun 2 - Jun 10 | 8595 £ | 12695 £ | 10595 £ | 15495 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Jul 22 - Jul 30 | 9495 £ | 13795 £ | 11595 £ | 16995 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Aug 18 - Aug 26 | 9495 £ | 13795 £ | 11595 £ | 16995 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Deposit per person | 1000 £ | 2000 £ | 4000 £ | ||||
DEPARTURES 2020
EASTBOUND - MOSCOW - PORT BAIKAL - IRKUTSK (9 DAYS)
2020 DEPARTURES DATES | Silver Class | Gold Class | Imperial Suite | ||||
| Twin | Single | Twin | Single | Twin | Single | ||
| May 3 - May 11 | 8795 £ | 12995 £ | 10795 £ | 15695 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| May 31 - Jun 8 | 8795 £ | 12995 £ | 10795 £ | 15695 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Jul 26 - Aug 5 | 9295 £ | 13795 £ | 11295 £ | 16995 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Aug 23 - Sept 2 | 9295 £ | 13795 £ | 11295 £ | 16995 £ | On Request | On Request | |
| Deposit per person | 1000 £ | 2000 £ | 4000 £ | ||||
The Tour Includes:
As far as possible tours are all inclusive with no hidden extras. What follows are those elements which are included in the tour price. The only extra items you will need to budget for include personal expenses such as international and internal flights, visa costs, travel insurance, drinks from the Bar Lounge Car and laundry.
Experienced Tour Managers
Experienced tour managers and their assistants are selected for their travel knowledge and their linguistic and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your rail cruise. Golden Eagle receive exceptional passenger comments about their Tour Managers and their aim is to ensure you enjoy every minute of your holiday.
Arrival and Departure Transfers
Arrival and departure transfers are included.
Hotel and Onboard Accommodation
Although you will spend much of your time sightseeing or relaxing in the train’s public areas, you will find you hotel room or cabin a welcome retreat at the end of a rewarding day. All hotels are of 5 star standard or, in certain locations, the best available. Room upgrades are available on request and at extra cost.
Welcome Dinner
Each tour begins with a Welcome Dinner, an ideal opportunity to get to know your fellow passengers; for the Tour Manager to brief you on the trip; and introduce you to the Golden Eagle Luxury Trains team and the Tour Doctor.
Route Guide, Itinerary and Information Pack
When you board the train there will be a brochure in your cabin detailing more about your journey and the places en-route. Tour Manager will organise a programme of briefings on the cities or places we visit and, each evening, will issue a programme for the next day’s touring schedule.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Daily
All departures feature one or two uniquely designed restaurant cars where you can enjoy the excellent waiter-served food and wine. Several times during the tour you will also sample authentic local cuisine off the train.
Drinks with Meals and from the Bar Lounge Car
A generous drinks allowance is included with lunch and dinner. For passengers travelling in Gold Class onboard the Golden Eagle, drinks from the Standard Drinks List in the Bar Lounge Car are also included. For Imperial Suite guests, drinks from both the Standard and Premium Bar Lists in the Bar Lounge Car are included.
Onboard Service
You can expect service which is attentive, friendly and unintrusive. Your car attendants provide 24-hour housekeeping and bedding turndown services, with one attendant always on duty to assist you and to ensure you are comfortable in your cabin. Complimentary tea, coffee and bottle drinking water are available in your cabin 24 hours a day.
Guided Off-Train Excursions
The history and culture of the places we visit on our rail cruises will come alive through our expert local guides. All tours include a wide-ranging sightseeing schedule to make the most of the time you have off the train and bring you closer to the culture, people and history of your destinations. We believe it is the special little touches that help create magical memories.
Imperial Suite guests will benefit from the option of a private car and guide in the majority of places we visit along the route.
Freedom of Choice Touring
Customise your journey and enjoy the opportunity to select from an array of Freedom of Choice Touring options that best suits your interests. Your off-train excursions will still take in all the major attractions of the places we are visiting but, in featured locations, you will be presented when you are onboard the train with a variety of activities from which to choose, and enjoy a tailor-made experience. Look at the individual itineraries where we are operating Freedom of Choice Touring.
Freedom of Choice Touring options may be subject to variations dependent on finalised train timings and local charges. Touring options available will typically be advised in the evening prior to the day’s tour.
Personal Headsets
On all the off–train excursions, to enhance your enjoyment and comprehension of the places you visit, you will be provided with a lightweight personal headset on which to listen to your tour guide as you take in the sights. So you do not need to worry about missing any of the interesting details on your excursions.
Onboard Doctor and Medical Facilities
To give you peace of mind our tours are accompanied by a doctor who travels with us for the entire journey; so you can rest assured that medical assistance is always available. On call 24 hours a day, the doctor is on hand to give primary care as required. Normally, the doctor will be English speaking and be registered with the General Medical Council in the UK.
Porterage
As you only have to unpack once, your luggage and belongings will stay with you on the train throughout the journey but, wherever necessary, porterage is included between the hotel and stations.
All Gratuities
You will not have to worry about tipping on and off the train on your rail journey with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains as all gratuities are included in the tour price.
Please note the following deposit is payable on this tour:
| SILVER CLASS CABIN | GOLD CLASS CABIN | IMPERIAL SUITE |
| £1,000 | £2,000 | £4,000 |
+44(0)207 603 50 45