Do you want to explore the largest cities in Europe? Moscow has everything to please you. Just like London, this capital of Russia is full of many pleasant places to visit. It is especially adored for its architectural splendor. At every street corner, you encounter buildings with a unique and inimitable design.
To discover this thriving metropolis, there are many different means of transport. Among airplane, bus, car, and train, the latter offers many advantages. The train journey is both comfortable and relaxing.
The legendary Paris–Moscow Express once linked the two capitals in under 48 hours via Berlin and Warsaw. Now suspended, the journey remains possible with several connections, offering a unique rail experience across Eastern Europe, between varied landscapes and cultural immersion.
That’s not all, it is safer due to a minimal risk of accidents compared to the car. Even better, the Paris Moscow train or Moscow Paris train is less polluting. If this trip appeals to you, this article reveals interesting details to know.
How long does a train journey from Paris to Moscow take?
You are planning to go to Moscow for a long or short stay. Whatever your reason, you favor the train, not the bus or plane, to enjoy a unique travel experience. Whether you plan to travel alone or in a group, it is always necessary to find out the duration of the trip to prepare yourself.
It should be noted that the distance between Moscow and Paris France details is approximately 2,488 kilometers. But by train, this distance reaches up to 3,177 kilometers. If you plan to take the popular Russian Railways trains, the fastest journey lasts one day, twelve hours, and thirty-six minutes. So, don’t hesitate to take advantage of this time to rest and especially to admire the wonderful landscapes passing by the window.
All about the Paris–Moscow train journey
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Main route | Paris – Berlin – Warsaw – Minsk – Moscow (historic route via the “Paris-Moscow Express” line) |
| Distance | About 2,800 km depending on the railway route |
| Travel time | About 36 to 48 hours depending on connections and customs checks |
| Current situation | The direct Paris–Moscow train has been suspended since 2022; only connections with transfers are possible |
| Current alternatives | Paris – Berlin – Warsaw by train, then night train Warsaw – Moscow (subject to border restrictions) |
| Countries crossed | France, Germany, Poland, Belarus, Russia |
| Formalities | Passport required, Russian visa, and sometimes Belarusian transit visa depending on political conditions |
| Onboard comfort | Sleeper cars, catering, comfortable couchettes on former direct routes |
| Approximate cost | Variable depending on number of stops and class (1st or 2nd), around €250 to €400 before suspension of direct service |
| Best period | Spring and summer for landscapes, winter for the unique snowy railway experience |
| Practical advice | Check diplomatic conditions and schedules before any railway travel project to Russia |
| Air alternatives | Direct Paris–Moscow flights (on hold for geopolitical reasons), or via Istanbul, Belgrade or Yerevan |
Another major advantage of the Paris Moscow train or even the Moscow Paris train is the possibility to cross many different countries. You don’t have to plan a guided trip to discover the world. With the Moscow Paris train No. 23/24 as an example, this convoy travels through Russia, Belarus, Poland, Germany, and then France.
If you dream of visiting many cities, it also serves multiple places such as Viazma, Smolensk, Orsha, Brest, Warsaw, Poznan, Berlin, Fulda, and more. In this regard, although the Moscow Paris train just like the Moscow Saint Petersburg train in Russia is a bit expensive, it allows you to explore new, still unknown places.
Which railway companies offer train journeys from Paris to Moscow?
Since the Moscow Paris trains or Paris Moscow trains continue to attract many European travelers, the railway companies handling this route are also increasing. The Russian network RZD is one of them.
Among the popular Russian Railways trains, it manages Moscow Express lines including the Paris Moscow train and the Saint Petersburg Moscow train. This same Russian railway company has also established two different routes to connect Russia and France. There is the Paris Moscow Paris train and another Moscow Nice Moscow.
Besides the Russian railway company RZD, some brands also promise you a safe and pleasant Moscow train Paris journey. Among the best known, you can choose from EuroNight, Night train, TGV, Night Train, Belarusian Railway, Czech Railways, Alleo, PKP Intercity and more.
Once in Moscow, enjoy your stay by visiting Red Square, the Bolshoi Theatre, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, the GUM, the Kremlin Museum, and many other interesting tourist sites.
The capital of France also abounds with countless fascinating places not to be missed such as the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, the Tuileries Garden, the Arc de Triomphe, and more. This city also has many charming hotels ready to welcome you with open arms.
Are there direct trains from Paris to Moscow or do you have to make stops?
Of course, it is possible to avoid stops by taking a direct Paris Moscow train. If you plan to take advantage of this, know that it is a night train offering you many benefits.
Many people prefer this type of travel to avoid traffic jams as well as the stress of missing, for example, a flight. It also allows them to save on a hotel night and especially to optimize their travel time. With a mask on their eyes and headphones on their ears, they don’t even realize they have already arrived at their destination.
This direct Paris Moscow night train departs from Moscow’s Belorusskiy station and then reaches the Gare de l’Est in the French capital. You can only take it once a week. It is advised to check in advance the departure date to avoid surprises. Generally, this Paris Moscow night train leaves on Thursday evening. But if you seem in a hurry, you can change trains without having to wait seven days.
What is the average cost of a train ticket from Paris to Moscow?
Before booking Paris Moscow train tickets, it is useful to gather information about train travel costs. If you are looking for one-way tickets, know that they start at 231.83 euros.
A train journey in a 4-berth compartment is the most affordable. However, the price increases for a 2-berth compartment. You should expect around 340 euros. For those seeking a luxury compartment, the fare goes up to 800 euros.
To save money, nothing beats booking Paris Moscow train tickets in advance. The best offer is available 90 days before the travel date. Also, please remain flexible with the schedules. Plan your departure during off-peak hours. This not only helps avoid crowds but also reduces your Paris Moscow train travel expenses.
One last tip, and not least, inquire about special offers from the railway company. Take the time to browse specialized platforms to compare prices. Often, there are specific fares on Paris Moscow train tickets for seniors, children, or group travel.
What are the different service classes available on the Paris-Moscow train?
Even though the Paris Moscow train journey does not seem faster than flying, it must be said that it is one of the most exceptional trips. It allows you to admire the beautiful landscapes of several countries through the window.
Enjoy every moment to explore a number of cities. You don’t need to hire a guide. The popular Russian Railways trains reveal the treasures of each place throughout the journey. With about thirty hours on board, this rail transport pleasantly takes you across half of the European continent.
You have the choice between 3 travel categories, including second class, first class, and luxury compartment. The first option consists of eleven passenger compartments. Each is designed for four passengers and equipped with a private mini washbasin. Inside, you find four fold-down berths.
As for the second option, it consists of a shared shower compartment and ten passenger compartments. It also features two foldable lower berths. For toilets, each compartment is equipped with a small private washbasin. Like second class, it has two toilet cabins with WCs.
If you have a larger budget, you can plan a luxury Paris Moscow train trip. Although this Moscow Paris train category is costly, it combines relaxation, comfort, and practicality. The train features four passenger compartments. They seem more spacious than those of the previous two options.
With a television and DVD player, armchair, upper berth, and another lower berth convertible into a sofa, each compartment is reserved for two passengers. It also has private toilets equipped with a washbasin, a shower, and a WC. In this famous Paris Moscow train ticket price, breakfast is included.
Although class fares vary depending on the services provided, each promises passengers air conditioning, a comfortable bed, and lockable doors.
Can bulky luggage be transported on the train from Paris to Moscow?
When considering taking a Moscow Paris France train in detail or Moscow Saint Petersburg train, one wants to get a lot of information, for example about ticket prices, the number of compartments, schedules, and luggage.
Regarding the latter, each railway company imposes its own conditions. But in general, light suitcases can be placed overhead while heavy ones are installed in a special space, most often in the middle of the cars.
Even though some train brands set the dimensions and weights of luggage, the majority simplify the process to satisfy customers. It is still required that the passenger is responsible for their luggage. These must of course be labeled in order to travel.
What are the main stations served by the train between Paris and Moscow?
If you take a Paris Moscow train, it sometimes stops either in Brussels, Liège, Aachen, or Cologne. Likewise, it makes stops in Dortmund, Bielefeld, Frankfurt (Oder), Warsaw, as well as Terespol.
The Paris Moscow train also passes through Minsk, then Orsha and Smolensk. It can also stop in Nancy, Strasbourg, Cologne, Karlsruhe, Frankfurt am Main, Fulda, Warsaw, Orsha, Vyazma, and many other stations.
If you like to take a night train, there are generally two options for Paris Moscow trains per day. One departs at 6:01 PM and arrives at 11:40 AM the day after next. As for the second, it leaves Paris at 8:05 PM and reaches Moscow at 1:33 PM the day after next.
How are visas managed for travelers taking the train from Paris to Moscow?
During trips on popular Russian Railways trains, it is important to highlight that the Moscow-Paris line crosses foreign countries, namely Belarus, Poland, and Germany. It is therefore essential to gather information on administrative procedures since it is an international journey.
Before taking the Paris Moscow train or Moscow Paris train, please apply for a visa at the consulate or embassy. For all European Union nationals, a Russian visa and a Belarusian visa are required to be able to cross the Paris Moscow line.
It must be admitted that preparing this file can often become burdensome. To avoid unforeseen issues, try to take into account all the expectations of the authorities. It is mandatory that the passenger meets all the criteria.
Before planning a trip between Paris and Moscow, also check out our guide on real-time Air France flight tracking, our article on when to travel to Asia, and our tips for traveling or moving abroad with peace of mind.
Are there dining options on board the Paris-Moscow train?
Of course, passengers have the possibility to benefit from them along the journey of Russia France trains. A special restaurant car, which is perfectly equipped, is made available to them. Up to the city of Minsk, this car serves as a Polish restaurant. But from this location, it is the Russian dining car that is attached to the Paris Nice Moscow train.
According to passengers, they greatly appreciate the organization of the catering. Payment is made in euros and the menu is presented in many languages including French. On board, one can enjoy cuisine that is both refined and tasty. For those who opt for the luxury category, they can enjoy breakfast included in the ticket.
How to book a ticket for the train from Paris to Moscow and what are the cancellation policies?
Whatever railway company you choose for the Moscow Paris trains, booking the ticket is very easy. The network has greatly simplified the process. It is still entirely feasible to book Paris Moscow train tickets online.
You just need to log in to the specialized platform and follow the process. Thanks to the internet, you can make a reservation anywhere, even from home. If you want to find cheaper Paris Moscow train tickets, you need to book train tickets in advance.
If you wish to proceed with a cancellation, it is recommended to inquire with your carrier. Please have your booking reference ready to simplify the tasks of the person in charge. Likewise, do not forget to provide the name you used for the order.
Finally, it is necessary to remind you that the cancellation of Moscow Paris train tickets must be done at least 6 days before the scheduled departure.
FAQ – Paris–Moscow by train
The direct service has been suspended since 2022. You now have to combine several trips, for example Paris–Berlin–Warsaw, then a train to Moscow if the borders allow it.
Between 36 and 48 hours depending on connections and border controls.
The route passes through France, Germany, Poland, Belarus, and Russia.
