: While it is the cheapest direct source, the English RZD site is currently frequently geo-blocked or unreachable without a VPN, and it generally cannot process non-Russian credit cards .
: The high-speed Sapsan train takes about 3.5 hours.
: Reservations typically open 60 to 90 days before departure.
: This is the most practical method for travelers outside Russia. These sites connect to the RZD system and issue electronic tickets (e-tickets).
Buying Russian train tickets for international travelers currently requires using third-party intermediaries due to international sanctions and technical restrictions on the official Russian Railways (RZD) website.