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Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Luxury Trains
Destinations
Siberia & Russian Far East

Please note: Due to international sanctions, we are currently unable to accept bookings for Russia.

Discover the highlights of Siberia on a journey along the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway. You'll start in Novosibirsk, Siberia's unofficial capital city and the third largest city in Russia, then wind your way through breathtaking panoramas at Krasnoyarsk's Stolby National Park, the charming log houses and intricate woodcarvings of Irkutsk, the natural wonders of Lake Baikal and Olkhon Island, ending in the Republic of Buryatia, known for its unique Buryat culture and ancient traditions. This is the best of Siberia, explored in the best the way.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Train Journeys: Chug along the Trans-Siberian Railway on day and overnight journeys, discovering epic landscapes of Siberia from the comfort of your cabin window.
  • Lake Baikal: Ethereal Lake Baikal is the world's oldest and deepest lake.
  • Food & Culture: Buryats, Old Believers and rural Siberians welcome you into their homes to share their cuisines and cultures.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Novosibirsk

Arrive into Novosibirsk, where you'll meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Take a rest before heading out for the evening for a welcome dinner in the countryside, hosted by an English-speaking local family. This experience is sure to give you an enriching introduction to Siberian culture, cuisine and hospitality.

Hotel Options
About

This luxurious five-star hotel was only opened in 2014, and now stands as one of the top places to stay in the central Russian city of Novosibirsk. Marriott really is a global name you can trust, and this Novosibirsk branch is no exception; expect a great location, stylish and spacious rooms and a whole host of onsite facilities and amenities.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Novosibirsk

Start your day exploring Novosibirsk, the unofficial capital of Siberia and the third-largest city in Russia. You'll cover all the main attractions in the region, starting with the nearby science-focused town of Akademgorodok (or "Academy City," nicknamed the "Science Vatican"). This fascinating place was created for scientific research at the height of the Cold War and today is home to Novosibirsk State University, several academies and 35 research centers. There's plenty of choice when it comes to museums and we recommend spending an hour or two at the Archeological Museum at the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography, the Geological Museum at the Institute of Geology and Mineralogy, or the Open-Air Railway Museum with its huge collection of Soviet locomotives and railway carriages, depending on your interests.

Returning to Novosibirsk proper, you'll tuck into a spread of Siberian specialties for lunch before continuing your discovery with a city tour. The Novosibirsk Railway Station is the largest and most impressive on the Trans-Siberian Railway, Krasny Prospekt Avenue is one of the longest straight streets in the world, Lenin Square boasts the world's second-largest opera house, while the historic wooden houses on Gorky Street and the vibrant Siberian farm-market make for great photo opportunities.

In the evening, get better acquainted with the railway station when you board the overnight train for Krasnoyark - a journey that takes around 12 hours.

Novosibirsk
Novosibirsk

Day 3

Krasnoyarsk

Pulling in early at Krasnoyarsk, you'll meet with your guide and head to Stolby Nature Reserve, known for its dramatic rock formations and excellent hiking routes. Your guide knows which paths to take for the best views and you'll hike around three kilometers (two miles) to reach epic panoramas, listening to facts and stories about the reserve, which is described as Krasnoyarsk's "lungs and soul." 

Take a picnic lunch in the outdoors (or a restaurant, depending on the weather), then drive down forested roads to the famous "Tsar Fish" observation point, which showcases gorgeous views of the Yenisei River and surrounding hillside, as well as a large sculpture of the tsar fish, a character from a local folk tale.

On your return to Krasnoyarsk for the night, stop by the Divnogorsk quay, near the Krasnoyarsk Hydro Power Station - one of the largest in Russia.

Hotel Options
About

Being one of the most modern hotels in Krasnoyarsk, Hilton Garden Inn is conveniently located in the city center next to plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. The Hilton name is a trusted hotel brand throughout the world, and this Krasnoyarsk branch is no different; rooms come smartly furnished with all the modern day conveniences you would expect from a quality four-star hotel.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Soft Hotel is a petite and unpretentious Krasnoyarsk hotel comprised of 25 rooms over the following categories: Standard, Comfort, Junior Suite and Suite. Interiors are homey and classic in style, featuring Italian furniture by Selva.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 4

Krasnoyarsk

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll take a city tour of Krasnoyarsk. Notable attractions include Mira Square and its lovely view of the river, a monument dedicated to Krasnoyarsk founder Andrew Dubenskoy, the picturesque Karaulnaya Hill, the Russian Orthodox Paraskeva Pyatnitsa Chapel, and the city's historic streets.

In the afternoon, you'll head to the train station for your next overnight journey to Irkutsk. The journey time is around 17 hours.

Day 5

Listvyanka

You'll arrive into Irkutsk early in the morning and meet with your guide for breakfast before heading out to Lake Baikal. En route, you'll visit the open-air Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture, which was created in the 1980s to preserve historic houses under threat from the Bratsk Reservoir. The 166-acre collection showcases authentic Russian and native Tafalar, Evenki and Buryat dwellings, some of which date back to the 17th century.

Next, you'll come to the village of Listvyanka, starting with a stop at Shaman Rock - the subject of many local legends. Tuck into a fresh fish lunch before learning about more of the flora and fauna of the area at the Museum of Lake Baikal, including a "video excursion" to the mysterious lakebed - the deepest in the world.

The rest of the afternoon is for exploring the outdoors: photographing from the best shorefront viewpoints of the scenic lake, taking a boat trip over Baikal's waters, meandering the vibrant fish market, then taking a chair-lift up to Stone of Chersky observation point for a panorama over the lake and the beginning of the Angara River.

Hotel Options
About

Perched on the rim of Lake Baikal, the Anastasia Hotel is the best accommodation option in the area, featuring an outdoor swimming pool and gorgeous views out to the lake. The cozy rooms are furnished in a modern style of warm woods and neutral tones, with some upgraded room types including balconies.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

On the shores of Lake Baikal, Krestovaya Pad is an ideal base for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings, located just 11 minutes walking from the Information Center of Baikal National Park. The property is comprised of eight buildings of cozy and homely wood-panelled guest rooms, some of which have balconies and feature views of the lake.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Situated on the picturesque shoreline of Lake Baikal and lying in the shadow of the legendary Shaman Stone, this modern hotel really is one of the most impressive places to stay in Listvyanka. The hotel is also near the Angara River affluence, which is rich in fresh air, green pine trees, and secluded shorelines along the perimeter of the lake.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Listvyanka
Listvyanka

Day 6

Irkutsk

You have your morning at leisure before transferring back to the city of Irkutsk. Discover more about this place with a city tour. Landmarks include the Znamensky Orthodox Cathedral, the historic Quarter 130 with its reconstructed 19th and 20th century buildings, charming log houses with handcarved detailing, a monument dedicated to the pioneers of Siberia (topped with a bronze statue of Emperor Alexander III), as well as the Decembrists' Museum. The latter is devoted to the failed revolt of December 14th 1825, the leaders of that rebellion and their subsequent exile to Siberia.

Hotel Options
About

Irkutsk is a city full of aging and rundown hotels, but thankfully the recent opening of Courtyard by Marriott addressed this problem, offering modern and comfortable rooms alongside a range of facilities and amenities. Heralded as the best hotel in the city, this three-star hotel has a globally-recognized name that all travelers can trust.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 7

Olkhon Island

Today, you'll leave Irkutsk and head further north and east along the rim of Lake Baikal until you reach Olkhon Island. The journey takes around six or seven hours and includes buses and ferries. Once you're on the island and checked into your hotel, spend the evening at leisure.

Hotel Options
About

This delightful hotel situated on Olkhon Island does exactly what its name implies, offering superb views of the surrounding Baikal Lake – a UNESCO World Heritage Center. The hotel itself is modern, comprising 90 standard rooms and two suites, all of which face the picturesque lake and mountains countryside as a backdrop.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Olkhon Island

Spend the day exploring the sights of Olkhon Island, which is known for its amazing landscapes as much for its places of spiritual significance. Sights of note include Cape Khoboy, Cape Three Brothers, the Rock Virgin and the village of Kharantsy - all are rich in culture and history, and have their own stories to tell.

Olkhon Island
Olkhon Island

Day 9

Irkutsk

After breakfast, you'll return to Irkutsk the same way, which takes between six and seven hours. Spend the evening relaxing after a long journey.

Hotel Options
About

Irkutsk is a city full of aging and rundown hotels, but thankfully the recent opening of Courtyard by Marriott addressed this problem, offering modern and comfortable rooms alongside a range of facilities and amenities. Heralded as the best hotel in the city, this three-star hotel has a globally-recognized name that all travelers can trust.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

Ulan Ude

Today, you'll take the morning train from Irkutsk to Ulan-Ude, which takes around seven hours. This is one of the most picturesque stretches of the Trans-Siberian Railway, as it winds around Lake Baikal. You'll arrive into Ulan-Ude in the afternoon and check into your hotel. Then, in the evening, you'll be invited to share dinner with an English-speaking Buryat family, where you'll learn how to prepare boozy meat dumplings, then enjoy a traditional Buryat dinner together.

Hotel Options
About

Perfect for business guests and first-time visitors wanting to get acquainted with the city, the smart Mergen Bator Hotel provides a range of modern rooms and on-site facilities. Just a five-minute walk from the city center of Ulan Ude, the hotel also has a sizeable swimming pool, spa, fitness center, restaurant, and guests can enjoy free access to the WiFi throughout.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Ulan Ude
Ulan Ude

Day 11

Ulan Ude

Start your full day tour of Ulan-Ude with a visit to the Ivolginsky datsan, a Buddhist temple where lamas (monks) reside, considered to be the center of Buddhism in Russia. The temple dates back to 1945 and is the residence of Pandito Khambo Lama, the Head of the Russian Buddhists. Explore the Buddhist university attached to the datsan, as well as examples of historic Buryat art and ritual objects.

Next, you'll enjoy lunch with an Old Believers family. The UNESCO-protected Old Believers are a colorful branch of Orthodox Russians who were exiled to Siberia in the 16th century. Their culture, including their beautiful polyphonic singing and funny folk games, have been well preserved. 

After lunch, you'll return to Ulan-Ude, the capital of the Republic of Buryatia. The city was established in 1666 by the Russian Cossacks, but before conquest of Siberia it was already known as a historic northern capital of the Hunnic Empire. Today, significant sights to see include the giant monument of Vladimir Lenin's head (a superbly bizarre example of Soviet art), downtown and the mountaintop observation point.

Day 12

Departure

As your trip comes to an end, you'll take breakfast at your hotel before checking out and transfering to the airport for your onward flight, or to the train station for an onward Trans-Siberian expedition to Mongolia.

Suggested Hotels For Days 1–2

Local Train

Local Train

Travel the Trans-Siberian railway from East to West or vice versa, starting in either Moscow or Vladivostok. Along the way, experience all the wonders of these fabulous cities and the natural scenic beauty in between, from Lake Baikal to the yurts of Ulaan Baatar. On days not spent exploring, relax in your private cabins and simply enjoy the scenery as it glides by.
Marriott Hotel

Marriott Hotel

This luxurious five-star hotel was only opened in 2014, and now stands as one of the top places to stay in the central Russian city of Novosibirsk. Marriott really is a global name you can trust, and this Novosibirsk branch is no exception; expect a great location, stylish and spacious rooms and a whole host of onsite facilities and amenities. Located in the heart of the city, Marriott Hotel Novosibirsk is just steps away from the metro, shops and major attractions in the city such as the popular Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet. The hotel caters for many different types of guests, such as travelers making their way through Siberia on the train, and this is also a popular choice for business guests with its conference room facilities. In terms of leisure opportunities, Marriott Novosibirsk boasts an excellent rooftop bar with great views across what is Russia’s third-largest city. There’s also a large, all-day international restaurant that serves a buffet breakfast in the morning and a varied menu throughout the rest of the day.

Suggested Hotels For Days 3–4

Local Train

Local Train

Travel the Trans-Siberian railway from East to West or vice versa, starting in either Moscow or Vladivostok. Along the way, experience all the wonders of these fabulous cities and the natural scenic beauty in between, from Lake Baikal to the yurts of Ulaan Baatar. On days not spent exploring, relax in your private cabins and simply enjoy the scenery as it glides by.
Soft Hotel

Soft Hotel

Soft Hotel is a petite and unpretentious Krasnoyarsk hotel comprised of 25 rooms over the following categories: Standard, Comfort, Junior Suite and Suite. Interiors are homey and classic in style, featuring Italian furniture by Selva. Room amenities include air-conditioning with individual temperature control, Villeroy & Boch bathroom products, hair dryer, make-up mirror, robes and slippers, toiletries, flat-screen TV, as well as a phone. There is also a casual cafe on site. Please note that Soft Hotel is a non-smoking property.
Hilton Garden Inn Krasnoyarsk

Hilton Garden Inn Krasnoyarsk


Being one of the most modern hotels in Krasnoyarsk, Hilton Garden Inn is conveniently located in the city center next to plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. The Hilton name is a trusted hotel brand throughout the world, and this Krasnoyarsk branch is no different; rooms come smartly furnished with all the modern day conveniences you would expect from a quality four-star hotel. This includes a choice of comfy twin or double beds, air conditioning and heating, spacious en-suite bathrooms, satellite TV and WiFi access throughout the hotel. Early rises shouldn’t miss out on the Hilton’s excellent buffet breakfast, which is served downstairs at Garden Grill & Bar – a venue that also serves a menu of international dishes throughout the day. There’s also a 24-hour gym on-site, and guests can reach the city’s main train station in around 15 minutes.


Suggested Hotels For Day 5

Anastasia Hotel

Anastasia Hotel

Perched on the rim of Lake Baikal, the Anastasia Hotel is the best accommodation option in the area, featuring an outdoor swimming pool and gorgeous views out to the lake. The cozy rooms are furnished in a modern style of warm woods and neutral tones, with some upgraded room types including balconies. Hotel facilities include a billiard room, a spa and a traditional restaurant.
Krestovaya Pad

Krestovaya Pad

On the shores of Lake Baikal, Krestovaya Pad is an ideal base for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings, located just 11 minutes walking from the Information Center of Baikal National Park. The property is comprised of eight buildings of cozy and homely wood-panelled guest rooms, some of which have balconies and feature views of the lake. There are also come standalone cottages available with living rooms, fireplaces and kitchens. Hotel amenities include two restaurants, a casual cafe, a grill bar with a terrace, a Finnish sauna and an indoor pool.
Legend of Baikal Hotel

Legend of Baikal Hotel

Situated on the picturesque shoreline of Lake Baikal and lying in the shadow of the legendary Shaman Stone, this modern hotel really is one of the most impressive places to stay in Listvyanka. The hotel is also near the Angara River affluence, which is rich in fresh air, green pine trees, and secluded shorelines along the perimeter of the lake. Interiors feel luxurious yet cozy, with warm wood tones, large comfy beds, and standard modern conveniences in all 39 rooms and suites, most of which come with balconies facing the lake. Elsewhere, guests are free to enjoy the hotel’s superb restaurant with panoramic views of Lake Baikal and the Angara River. There’s also an on-site swimming pool, sauna, and games room. Legend of Baikal Hotel is approximately one hour from the nearest major city, Irkutsk.

Suggested Hotel For Day 6

Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott

Irkutsk is a city full of aging and rundown hotels, but thankfully the recent opening of Courtyard by Marriott addressed this problem, offering modern and comfortable rooms alongside a range of facilities and amenities. Heralded as the best hotel in the city, this three-star hotel has a globally-recognized name that all travelers can trust. Rooms number 208 (including eight suites) and come well-appointed with carpeted floors, large comfy beds, WiFi, satellite television, heating controls and stylish en-suite bathrooms. Courtyard by Marriott Irkutsk is also ideally placed in the city center, just a short walk from Kirov Place, the Angara River, a popular drama theater and the art museum. The UNESCO World Heritage Center of Baikal Lake is also around a one-hour drive from the hotel. In terms of on-site amenities, guests are spoilt for choice with a range of dining options including an all-day international restaurant, bar, meeting room and fitness room.

Suggested Hotel For Days 7–8

Baikal View Hotel

Baikal View Hotel


This delightful hotel situated on Olkhon Island does exactly what its name implies, offering superb views of the surrounding Baikal Lake – a UNESCO World Heritage Center. The hotel itself is modern, comprising 90 standard rooms and two suites, all of which face the picturesque lake and mountains countryside as a backdrop. Baikal View Hotel has also received awards and been recognized as one of the best in the area. In fitting with the beautiful natural scenery, rooms here come with plenty of wooden features, creating an almost log cabin feel. Modern touches in the rooms are also evident, with each unit coming with heating, modern furnishings and well-appointed en-suite bathrooms. As well as impressive rooms, Baikal View boasts a stunning swimming pool that overlooks the lake, not forgetting a quality international restaurant and bar that again both take full advantage of the expansive views looking out over the blue water surrounding Olkhon Island.  


Suggested Hotel For Day 9

Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott

Irkutsk is a city full of aging and rundown hotels, but thankfully the recent opening of Courtyard by Marriott addressed this problem, offering modern and comfortable rooms alongside a range of facilities and amenities. Heralded as the best hotel in the city, this three-star hotel has a globally-recognized name that all travelers can trust. Rooms number 208 (including eight suites) and come well-appointed with carpeted floors, large comfy beds, WiFi, satellite television, heating controls and stylish en-suite bathrooms. Courtyard by Marriott Irkutsk is also ideally placed in the city center, just a short walk from Kirov Place, the Angara River, a popular drama theater and the art museum. The UNESCO World Heritage Center of Baikal Lake is also around a one-hour drive from the hotel. In terms of on-site amenities, guests are spoilt for choice with a range of dining options including an all-day international restaurant, bar, meeting room and fitness room.

Suggested Hotel For Days 10–11

Mergen Bator Hotel

Mergen Bator Hotel


Perfect for business guests and first-time visitors wanting to get acquainted with the city, the smart Mergen Bator Hotel provides a range of modern rooms and on-site facilities. Just a five-minute walk from the city center of Ulan Ude, the hotel also has a sizeable swimming pool, spa, fitness center, restaurant, and guests can enjoy free access to the WiFi throughout. The rooms here are also well-equipped with a mini-fridge, kettle, flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and sizeable en-suite bathrooms. Guests can easily reach some of the best attractions in the city from the doors of the hotel; both Sovetov Square and Ballet and Opera Theatre are a short walk away, while Baykal Airport is just a 20-minute drive.


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Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

Breaking the Ice: Discovering Siberia’s Lake Baikal

Author
Jay Tindall
Baikal is the deepest and purest lake on the planet, a frozen sea in the heart of Siberia and an adventurer's icy paradise of driving, helicopters, and dog sleds. From the Old Believers to the Buryat bone crushers, its shores and islands are sacred to those who call Baikal home.
Read Article

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