Russia

Getting around

Bus & tram

Bus

The cheapest way to get around Russia is by bus. The enormous size of the country makes it rather unappealing, but for short trips from major cities it can be faster than the train and there are more regular connections. A sample cost is R515 (Moscow–St Petersburg). There’s almost no need to reserve a seat and, in most places, it’s impossible anyway. Just arrive a good 30 minutes to one hour before the departure is scheduled and buy a ticket.

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Train

Long-distance services need to be booked in advance. Platskartny compartments, while cheaper, have open bunk accommodation and are not great for those who value privacy. Kupeyny (coupé) class simply has four fold-down beds per compartment. Prices between Moscow and St Petersburg in 2nd class begin at R500, going up to R1500 for the fast day trains.

You are advised to reserve at least 24 hours in advance. Bring your passport (or a photocopy), as without it you’ll be unable to buy tickets. The queues can be very long and move with interminable slowness. If you’re in a hurry, go to the service centres that exist in most big train stations. Here you pay a R100 surcharge; thus, there are no queues. Hostels can usually book tickets for you and have them delivered for a small fee.

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