Taking children on long trips requires a lot of coordination and planning. However, with the high-speed Sapsan train, parents know that their needs have been anticipated. The first principle of creating a pleasant family vacation is to minimize long rides. With a Sapsan ticket, the travel time is usually halved compared to other trains. The second principle is to avoid hassles and unforeseen circumstances. By choosing a Sapsan train instead of a plane or bus, families can not only stretch their legs, they can avoid the unpredictability of these two modes and the need for connecting transportation to and from the airport. With a dedicated car for children, the Sapsan train is the ultimate key to a pleasant journey. This is especially the case for Sapsan Moscow to St. Petersburg and the reverse trip; Sapsan trains avoid the long overnight train experience. Be sure to book in early on the children’s car, as there are only seven seats. They are very worth the early commitment, however.
At the Stations
Both the magnificent Leningradsky Station in Moscow and Moskovsky Station in St. Petersburg are historical and impressive. Better yet, both have facilities for families. These include mother and child rooms for changing. Leningradsky even has a playground!
The Sapsan’s Children’s Car
The Sapsan train’s car for children, their parents and those traveling alone between the ages of 10 and sixteen eliminates many traveling problems. The car is the tenth or the twentieth on a long train. Sliding doors separate it to contain the noise from the rest of the other Sapsan seating classes. The most important part is, of course, the toys! This car’s toys eliminate the need to pack more of them and give kids some variety apart from those their parents brought. A diaper-changing table and bathroom enable families to remain in one area, so they don’t have to walk elsewhere once they get there. The walls and floors are a colorful carpet designed for play. Children 10 to 16 can ride unaccompanied in this compartment too and are helped and watched by the staff here.
Booking the Children’s Car
Coaches numbered 10 on short trains, or 20 on long trains are the ones dedicated to children. The Sapsan seats in these cars are ticketed and always the same numbers, which makes booking easy. Choose seats numbered 45-48 or 51-52. Seat number 49 is reserved for a mother with a toddler only. Lucky number 50 does not exist. Because there are only seven seats, be sure to secure tickets early. Fortunately, the Sapsan train operates on both routes several times per day. If you are somewhat flexible, a children’s car should have seats at some time.
The Reduced Price of Children’s Sapsan Tickets
Children below ten travel for a lower Sapsan ticket price. Better yet, there is no charge for children under five if they don’t need a seat. However, they will need a ticket with their name printed on it to board the train (for free). When booking, simply select a child’s ticket when entering the passenger’s name and details.
What if the Children’s Compartment is full?
The reduced fares apply to regular seats as well. With larger seats, more space and quicker trip lengths than a plane or bus, you’ll still be better off on a Sapsan train.
Summary
When on a family adventure in Russia, the Sapsan train is the most accommodating option. It’s great for popular trips like Sapsan St. Petersburg to Moscow. Because of the reduced fares and child compartment, it enables families to travel comfortably, cheaply and imagine this: even having a pleasant or fun time. It’s a hassle-free way to arrive in Moscow or St. Petersburg. Without the hassles of an airport or bus, and the additional transportation that they may require, your family can arrive at the station in the city center refreshed and ready to experience the city.
