Grand Express Luxury Train Overview

 

The Grand Express has for decades been synonymous to luxury train travel in Russia. This elegant overnight train runs on the Moscow to Saint Petersburg rail route and offers travelers high comfort and top-notch service. In this piece, we've put together handy information about the train, including stations, coach classes and facilities which can be found on board.

 

Quick Facts about Grand Express

— The Moscow - St. Petersburg train Grand Express is actually a private luxury train, the first one in Russia owned privately.
— Out of all overnight trains on the route, the Grand Express is the fanciest rail travel option.
— The train began its service in 2005.
— The Grand Express de lux train is safety-checked daily to assure its technical serviceability.
— For any questions or assistance, the qualified and experienced train staff is always on board the train.

 

Grand Express Timetable

The Grand Express train schedule has one departure every day from Moscow to St. Petersburg and one from St. Petersburg to Moscow. Usually, this overnight train departs around 11:40 p.m. in either Moscow or St. Petersburg and it takes a little less than 9 hours to cover the distance of 650 kilometers between the cities with an average travel time ranging from 8 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours 56 minutes.

 

Grand Express Stations & Stops

The luxurious Grand Express trains either depart from (or arrive to) the Moskovsky Rail Station in St. Petersburg or the Leningradsky Rail Station in Moscow. Unlike most other overnight trains on the Moscow to St. Petersburg route, the Grand Express is a direct train which doesn't make any stops along the way.

 

Grand Express Onboard Amenities

The Grand Express train Moscow to St. Petersburg is all about lush rail travel to make you feel like you are home. The train has air-conditioning, a ventilation system, and soundproof cars. Passengers are free to use the complimentary Grand Express WiFi which is available throughout the trip. Also, regardless of coach class, the train cabins boast comfortable soft furniture, rather wide beds, small tables, flat-screen TVs, power sockets, and individual reading lights. Apart from the well-equipped cabins, the train has a classy restaurant car called "Restogrand" in which passengers are welcome to have meals of local and European cuisine. Most passengers on the train (except those who travel Economy Basic Class or Economy Extra Class) are offered a hot breakfast which is included in the ticket price.

 

Grand Express Travel Classes

There are 11 types of coach classes onboard the Grand Express train, below is some short information about each class.

— The most extravagant of all are the 4 Grand Imperial cabins each one for 2 passengers; they have a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, two TVs, wireless headphones, individual climate control, and dinner included in the ticket price. Moreover, the top perk is an included private transfer uppon arrival.
— The next class is 4 Grand de Lux cabins, also for 2 passengers each, which are exactly the same as the previous Grand Imperial cabins yet exclude the headphones and don't include dinner. Private transfer upon arrival included.
— There are 6 Grand cabins for 2 people in each, the only difference from Grand de Lux cabins is that here the private bathroom facilities have a regular shower, not walk-in.
— The 6 Grand Single cabins are same as the previous Grand cabins but can accommodate 1 passenger each.
— Next are 9 Premium cabins also for 2 passengers, with a private bathroom with no shower in every cabin, central air-conditioning but with no individual climate control.
— There are 9 Premium Single cabins too, they feature the same facilities as Premium cabins but can accommodate 1 passenger.
— The 9 1st Class Business cabins are designed for 2 passengers per cabin and don't have private bathroom facilities. There is a safe and wardrobe in each cabin as well.
— There are 9 1st Class Standard cabins for 2 people each and a wardrobe, no safe nor private bathroom.
— A simpler class type is Economy Plus, there are 9 cabins each for 4 passengers with two upper berths and two lower berths.
— 9 Economy Basic cabins also for 4 passengers each have two upper berths and two lower berths, WiFi and a TV, yet this class type doesn't include breakfast.
— The simplest class - 9 Economy Extra cabins are designed for 4 passengers in every cabin, there are 2 upper berths and 2 lower berths, no TVs, WiFi, nor breakfast included.

 

Travel Classes Onboard Grand Express Train

    • Grand Single Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Cabin (img 1)
    • Grand Express Grand Cabin (img 3)

    1-bed Grand Cabin

    There are 6 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train. Each is designed for 1 passenger and is 1.5 times larger than ordinary cabins. The private cabins feature a transforming sofa (width: 110 cm when converted), an upper bunk bed (width: 80 cm, foldable), a closet for storing your belongings, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer, as well as a private bathroom with a bidet, sink, and shower. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, towel set, a bathrobe, a pair of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with a toothbrush and other vanity kit items. The ticket price includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (juice, water, tea & coffee). The VIP bar and Bistro restaurant are in the neighboring train car.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express 2nd class sleeper (img 1)
    • Grand Express 2nd class sleeper (img 2)
    • Grand Express 2nd class sleeper (img 3)

    4-bed Sleeper +

    There are 9 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train, each designed for 4 passengers. The shared cabins feature 2 lower berths (width: 70 cm) and 2 upper berths (width: 70 cm), free Wi-Fi, 4 individual sockets for 220V and 2 USB sockets for the lower berths, a TV and media streamer. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, a towel, and drinking water (newspapers and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items such as a toothbrush may be available). The ticket price is indicated per person, the ticket sometimes includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (water, tea & coffee). There are two shared bathrooms on both ends of the train car. 
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper (img 1)
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper (img 2)
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper (img 3)
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper

    2-bed Sleeper

    There are 9 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train, each designed for 2 passengers. The shared cabins feature two sofas (width: 70 cm), two coat racks, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, a towel, a pair of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket price is indicated per person, it is possible to travel alone in the cabin (not to share it with someone else) by booking two tickets. The ticket includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (water, tea & coffee). There are two shared bathrooms on both ends of the train car. Bistro restaurant is in the neighboring train cars.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express Grand Cabin (img 1)
    • Grand Express Grand Cabin (img 2)
    • Grand Express Grand Cabin (img 3)

    2-bed Grand Cabin

    There are 6 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train. Each is designed for 2 passengers and is 1.5 times larger than ordinary cabins. The private cabins feature a transforming sofa (width: 110 cm when converted), an upper bunk bed (width: 80 cm, foldable), a closet for storing your belongings, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer, as well as a private bathroom with a bidet, washbasin, and non-walk-in shower. Travelers are provided with 2 bed-linen sets, 2 towel sets, 2 bathrobes, 2 pairs of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with 2 toothbrushes and other vanity kit items. The ticket price is indicated for the entire cabin (not per person) and includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (juice, water, tea & coffee). The VIP bar and Bistro restaurant are in the neighboring train car.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 1)
    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 2)
    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 3)
    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 4)

    2-bed Cabin +

    There are 9 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train, each designed for 2 passengers. The private cabins feature a transforming sofa, an upper bunk bed, a closet for storing your belongings, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer, as well as a washbasin. Travelers are provided with 2 bed-linen sets, 2 towel sets, 2 pairs of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket price is indicated for the entire cabin (not per person) and includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (water, tea & coffee). The Bistro restaurant is in the neighboring train cars.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper (img 1)
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper (img 2)
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper (img 3)
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper
    • Grand Express 1st class sleeper

    2-bed Business Sleeper

    There are 9 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train, each designed for 2 passengers. The shared cabins feature two sofas (width: 80 cm), two coat racks, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, a towel, a pair of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (water, tea & coffee).  There are two shared bathrooms on both ends of the train car. The VIP bar and Bistro restaurant are in the neighboring train cars.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin

    2-bed Imperial Cabin

    There are 4 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train. Each is designed for 2 passengers and is 2 times larger than ordinary cabins. The private cabins feature a transforming leather sofa (width: 110 cm when converted), an upper bunk bed (width: 80 cm, foldable), a closet for storing your belongings, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, a hairdryer, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV, DVD, and media streamer, as well as a private bathroom with a bidet, washbasin, and a walk-in shower. Travelers are provided with 2 bed-linen sets, hypoallergic pillow, 2 towel sets, 2 bathrobes, 2 pairs of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket price is indicated for the entire cabin (not per person) and includes a dinner in the cabin and a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (juice, water, tea & coffee). Moreover, upon arrival, a free transfer by a business class car is available, you may book it with the car attendant. The VIP bar and the Bistro restaurant are available in the neighboring train cars.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Premium Cabine Single
    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 1)
    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 3)
    • Grand Express VIP Cabin (img 4)

    1-bed Cabin +

    There are 9 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train, each designed for 1 passenger. The private cabins feature a transforming sofa (width: 100 cm when converted), an upper bunk bed (width: 80 cm, foldable), a closet for storing your belongings, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer, as well as a private bathroom with a washbasin. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, a towel set, a pair of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket price includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (water, tea & coffee). The VIP bar and Bistro restaurant are in the neighboring train cars.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Imperial Cabin Single
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin

    1-bed Imperial Cabin

    There is 1 compartment of this type on the Grand Express train. It is designed for 1 passenger and is 2 times larger than ordinary cabins. The private cabin features an Ergomotion bed (width: 90 cm, length: 195 cm, when converted), it is adjustable by remote control and has a massage function. There is also an air-conditioner, a closet for storing your belongings, free Wi-Fi, a safe, a hairdryer, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV and media streamer, as well as a private bathroom with a bidet, washbasin, and a walk-in shower. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, hypoallergic pillow, a towel set, a bathrobe, a pair of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket price includes a dinner in the cabin and a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (juice, water, tea & coffee). The VIP bar and the Bistro restaurant are available in the neighboring train cars.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin
    • Grand Express Grand Imperial Cabin

    2-bed Deluxe Cabin

    There are 4 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train. Each is designed for 2 passengers and is 2 times larger than ordinary cabins. The private cabins feature a transforming Alcantara sofa (width: 110 cm when converted), an upper bunk bed (width: 80 cm, foldable), a closet for storing your belongings, an air-conditioner, free Wi-Fi, a safe, a hairdryer, sockets for 220V and USB, a TV, DVD, and media streamer, as well as a private bathroom with a bidet, washbasin, and a walk-in shower. Travelers are provided with 2 bed-linen sets, 2 towel sets, 2 bathrobes, 2 pairs of slippers, newspapers, and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items. The ticket price is indicated for the entire cabin (not per person) and includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (juice, water, tea & coffee). The VIP bar is in this train car, the Bistro restaurant is available in the neighboring train car.
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

    • Grand Express 2nd class sleeper (img 1)
    • Grand Express 2nd class sleeper (img 2)
    • Grand Express 2nd class sleeper (img 3)

    4-bed Sleeper

    There are 9 compartments of this type on the Grand Express train, each designed for 4 passengers. The shared cabins feature 2 lower berths (width: 70 cm) and 2 upper berths (width: 70 cm), free Wi-Fi, 4 individual sockets for 220V and 2 USB sockets for the lower berths, a TV and media streamer. Travelers are provided with a bed-linen set, a towel, and drinking water (newspapers and a travel kit with necessary vanity kit items such as a toothbrush may be available). The ticket price is indicated per person, the ticket sometimes includes a hot breakfast, snacks, and soft drinks (water, tea & coffee). There are two shared bathrooms on both ends of the train car. 
    The carrier declares that it conducts a thorough sanitation, cleaning and disinfection of all common areas on its trains, including surfaces, seats, handles, windows, tables, luggage compartments, bathrooms and operator cabins.
    Mask is required

Grand Express Train Customer Reviews