Since late 2009, the cities of Moscow and St Petersburg have been linked by a high-speed Sapsan train route. This route has cut down journey times between the two cities to just four hours. Named after the Russian word for peregrine falcon, the trains reach speeds of up to 250km/hr.
The Sapsan is reportedly very reliable, with services arriving on-time or early in most cases. Information on-board the trains is provided in both English and Russian.
Sapsan Trains
The new Sapsan high-speed trains have been built by Siemens for Russian Railways. As a result, you can expect to find all the modern features associated with other European high-speed routes. Each train consists of two business class carriages, seven standard class carriages and one bar/buffet car.
Passengers may choose to buy hot and cold food and drink from the 'bistro' car. There are a couple of tables in the bar if you would like to sit away from your seat, or seat-service is also available. A trolley-service also operates along the carriages, offering hot, cold and alcoholic drinks.
Disabled passengers are well catered-for with dedicated seating areas and tilet facilities.
Business Class:
Business Class passengers benefit from reclining seats, built in audio/video screens, and power sockets for laptops/mobile phones. Ticket prices include complimentary newspapers, travel kit, a range of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks, as well as a hot meal from a set menu.
Standard Class:
Standard class seats are comfortable, with individual reading lights, tables (either back of seat or fixed in-between facing seats), and footrests. Passengers may purchase newspapers and food/drink from the bistro bar or trolley.
Promotional Video for the Sapsan High-Speed Train: