How to Book Train Travel From St. Petersburg to Warsaw

The best way to get from St. Petersburg to Warsaw overland is to take the train. There are several routes you can choose from, each with its own unique advantages. From the train window you'll see some truly spectacular countryside, including parts of Europe many foreigners never get to witness. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Credit card
• Passport
• Visa

Book Your Train Travel From St. Petersburg to Warsaw

1. Book tickets from St. Petersburg to Warsaw by visiting the "Express to Russia" Web site (see Resources below), or by calling 800-553-9034.
2. Splurge on quality. Because train travel is so affordable in Russia, you can easily justify spending some extra money to reserve the finest accommodations. First-class rooms have 2 berths and are very private. They make even the longest trip comfortable and enjoyable.
3. Go to the ticket counter in St. Petersburg up to 45 days before your journey. You'll need to buy your ticket at the station serving Warsaw. Ticket prices in St. Petersburg are very low. The trains are high quality.

Plan Your Train Travel from St. Petersburg to Warsaw

4. Take the direct train from St. Petersburg to Warsaw. This is direct route.
5. Consider an indirect route from St. Petersburg to Warsaw. The direct route will take you through Belarus, which will slow you down and will cost an extra fee on top of your ticket price for a transit visa.
6. Map out your alternate route carefully. The best route to avoid Belarus is to go from St. Petersburg to Vilnius, from Vilnius to Kaunas, and from Kaunas to Warsaw. Though you'll have to take 3 trains and buy separate tickets for each section, it may actually cost you less to do this. Plus, you'll avoid Belarus altogether.
7. Check departure times. If you do plan on going the indirect route, make sure departure times at all stations are coordinated. You could end up spending long hours waiting for another train.

Get to Know Your Fellow Travelers

8. Talk to the other passengers on the train. Warsaw has an incredible history, culture and people. Talking with fellow travelers is a great chance to learn about Warsaw firsthand.
9. Ask the locals about the best shopping, dining and entertainment. They know the city better than anyone. You'll be able to hear about places you'd never find any other way.

Tips & Warnings

• Book online to quickly access information about trains, routes and travel tips.
• Avoid traveling through Belarus if you can. It will take longer and cost more money.