Trans-Mongolian Express Itinerary

Begin this Trans-Mongolian odyssey in St Petersburg, the shining star of modern Russia. After a boat tour along the city’s canals and waterways, pick up some basic Russian in a language class. The illustrious Hermitage Museum is a great place to visit for its collection of artistic treasures, or maybe just wander about, admiring the Baroque architecture and European atmosphere of the city.

Experience how Suzdal, part of Russia's Golden Ring of ancient capitals, holds a millennium's worth of Russian history. Venture down rustic lanes and be enchanted by medieval monasteries and cathedrals while on a walking tour. Relax by the riverside with a glass of medovukha, a local tipple made from honey.

Travel to the enigmatic city of Moscow, a mixture of Orthodox churches, communist relics and brash capitalism. Visit Lenin's Mausoleum and the Armoury Museum in the Kremlin, then meander through Red Square, and perhaps peek inside the iconic St Basil's Cathedral.

Take a last wander around the city, or stock up on supplies, before descending into Moscow's magnificent metro and heading to Yaroslavsky Station. From here begins the epic journey that is the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Ride the famous Trans-Siberian Railway travels deep into the Siberian taiga - the perfect opportunity to chill out, sip tea with the locals and watch the scenery pass by. Enjoy stops along the way, which include the chance to stock up on dumplings at platform stalls.

Head to the world's largest freshwater lake, Baikal. Experience a homestay on Baikal's tranquil banks for a firsthand experience of life in remote, provincial Russia. While here, why not get steamy in a traditional Russian sauna.

Wander the streets of Irkutsk and see both traditional Siberian buildings and stark communist-era architecture. Delve into romantic local history at the Volkonsky House Museum - the former home of the 'Princess of Siberia', Maria Volkonsky. Depart the land of Lenin and venture into the grasslands of Ghengis Khan on the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Learn about Mongolia's turbulent history at some of Ulaanbaatar's fine museums, monasteries and palaces. Spend an unforgettable night in a nomadic ger camp in the magnificent Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. There's the chance to don an apron and help to prepare a classic meal of buuz – Mongolian dumplings - before returning to Ulaanbaatar to stock up on supplies for the rail journey to Beijing.

Revel in Beijing's wealth of historical sights and cultural attractions. Stand atop the Great Wall and marvel at the might of the Middle Kingdom before heading back to the hustle and bustle of Beijing city for a final spot of sightseeing. While here, a delicious meal of Peking duck is an absolute must.