Fastest trains in Russia

Sapsan, the fastest trains in Russia, travelling at up to 250 km/h (155 mph) and a total length of 250 metres (820 ft) for each ten-car train, connecting St Petersburg and Moscow in just over 3.5 hours.

Known as the "Peregrine Falcon" in Russian (Сапсан), the train is part of the Siemens Valero family of trains, and can carry up to 600 passengers.

Sapsan set records for the fastest train in Russia on 7 May 2009, travelling at 290 km/hour (180 mph), but the High-Speed line was built for speeds up to 330 km/h (205 mph).

The ride is smooth, seats comfortable and spacious. Depending on the class of travel, you may be offered a meal and some drinks. I traveled in first (a personal treat), though on observation seats in business and economy are both of equal quality, and there is a snack bar and catering for purchase on-board.

My 6:45am train from Saint Petersburg arrived in  Moscow  on time at 10:40am, I barely noticed we were flying on the ground. For such a short journey, save yourself some rubles and don't travel in first, splurge instead on a nice hotel.

Hotel 3mostA - Saint Petersburg - Russia

Named after the area where the hotel is situated, "3 Bridges", Hotel 3mostA is a  boutique hotel in a great location for seeing St Petersburg Russia, just a few minutes walk to the world famous Hermitage, and just a step away from the jaw-dropping Church of the Saviour on Spilt Blood.There are shops and entertainment nearby, some open 24 hours, including the hotel lobby bar. If you can't sleep during the White Nights, there is still plenty to do nearby.

The Room

There are 26 rooms with wooden floors, each equipped with climate control system, free wireless internet access, a telephone, a 32'' LCD TV, and a small fridge. I had the Standard Double Room (room 25), about 20 square metres, double bed and bathroom with a shower only. I really liked the warm towel rail which keeps them warm and dry.

Four Seasons Terrace Restaurant

On the 5th floor, the restaurant offers panoramic views of Church of the Saviour on Spilt Blood, the most breathtaking building in St Petersburg.

Panoramic Terrace

Get the key from reception and take the lift/elevator to the last floor, leave the lift/elevator and turn left and go up the stairs, you'll find a closed metal door, walk up a small set of steps and find a rooftop terrace with chairs and some great views of the surrounding area.

I wouldn't hesitate to return to Hotel 3mostA, the location alone makes this ideal.

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