Beware of Russiantrains.com

Saruman

This might be self evident but just thought I would share it.

Heading to St Petersburg in a few months from Helsinki via the train.
I had looked it up before and it seemed quick and reasonable.

Anyway, girlfriend was going through the booking last night and for two people return it came to about €490 :eek:(it was in USD). I said that it's way too expensive, what site is that? Russiantrains.com? Sounds a bit "too clickable".

Told her to try the Finnish train website vr.fi and it was less than a 1/4 the price at €115 for the two of us return.

So, it may seem like common sense but just be sure if you are booking a train to/from Russia, be very careful to go to an official site like vr.fi or rzd.ru (http://pass.rzd.ru/main-pass/public/en) if going from or within Russia. Don't use anyone else as they will charge a premium and may even be a complete scam.

Yamanoto

When it comes to rail travel the world over, always pays to consult the Bible:

http://www.seat61.com/helsinki-to-st-petersburg-by-train.htm#.VrtFp1SLTcc

Strumms

Yamanoto wrote: »

When it comes to rail travel the world over, always pays to consult the Bible:

http://www.seat61.com/helsinki-to-st-petersburg-by-train.htm#.VrtFp1SLTcc

Absolutly.. brilliant site.. so detailed and helpful.

kindalen

do you need a visa for russia via train?

Gatica

I would imagine that yes you would. You're still entering the country and the visas/passports would be checked onboard by police. I don't know how immigration would register your visit though...

Saruman

Yes, the only way you don't need a visa is if you arrive by cruise ship or ferry with a group. I think it's 72 hours or something.

kindalen

looked at the ferry from there or Talinn, not having cost/bother of visa is major bonus.