‘A journey through the Trans-Siberian Railway is among the most unforgettable and truly unique experiences one could ever have, whether you are an occasional tourist or a true-blue travel junkie…’
If you plan to live the dream of any intrepid, curious adventurer and give in to your thirst for new experiences by getting on board the Trans-Siberian train, you will want to know the best time to travel this route.
Truth be told, there is no best time to travel when it comes to the Trans-Siberian Railway, as each of us have our own preferences. The route itself that crosses the huge country allows you to marvel at the natural beauty that will greet you and take your breath away. Thus, instead of recommending to you a certain time of the year, we give you this detailed account of each season, and it’s up to you to choose which one best suits you.
The Sweltering Russian Summer
Most foreign tourists visiting Russia favour this time of year, when it stays hot and dry from May until the end of August. Perhaps it helps that majority of the tourists can only come during their summer holiday, which is also the time for Russia’s hot season. Albeit it can get scorching, with the temperature rising even into the 40s in the middle of May, Mongolia – which is along the route of the Trans-Siberian Railway – is still best enjoyed in summer. Fret not, for there is usually a cooling breeze on the plains.
Still, if the combination of scorching heat and rubbing elbows with crowds of people from all walks of life isn’t your picture of an ideal vacation, then you might prefer travelling through the Trans-Siberian route at another time. Check out tips on how to survive the Trans-Siberian trip, which you can find from articles available online.
The Brief Trans-Siberian Autumn
One of the preferred seasons to travel through the Trans-Siberian Railway, the Russian Autumn is not as hot as in July and August. Autumn in Russia is short, lasting from mid-September to mid-October. If in the first week of October you are heading over to China, which is part of the Trans-Siberian route, you will be met with millions of tourists out to enjoy a major Chinese holiday.
The Bone-Chilling Russian Winter
Winter in Russia starts in October and ends in March and is considered by some as one of the best times to travel on the Trans Siberian Railway, even though temperatures can drop to -60c. If you are someone who isn’t bothered by the cold and till opt to make your way across the wilderness between Moscow and Vladivostok, you’ll be rewarded by the sight of snow-covered pines that look like they belong in a Christmas card. Also, Trans-Siberian trains, such as the Golden Eagle luxury trains, offer enough warmth and the scene of locals in fur coats and hats walking around only adds to the ambience that Russian winters bring.
Vibrant Russian Spring
If you are someone who doesn’t like crowds, you might love travelling in spring, which lasts from April until May. When you ask tourists who have ridden the Trans-Siberian train about the best time to experience the journey, it is more likely that spring won’t pop up as one of the answers. It seems to be a time that not many choose for their Trans-Siberian experience. It could be due to melting snow.
With the options presented above, you can now make your own choice as to when you should schedule your Trans-Siberian Railway adventure. Whatever is your decision, always try to book early to be able to have a choice between first and second class. Once a decision has been made and a trip is booked, you can start preparing for your Trans-Siberian escapade.
Suz xx
** This article is published in partnership with Mediabuzzer **
