High-speed trains are European-standard high-speed inter-city trains, capable of typical ground speeds of 250 kph (or 155 mph). They currently run between Moscow, St. Petersburg, Helsinki, and Nizhny Novgorod. These trains are called "Sapsan" within Russia, or "Allegro" on the Helsinki – St. Petersburg route.

Express trains have two types of seats - 1st or 2nd class. Both of these classes are adequately comfortable with an offering of complimentary drinks and snacks and additional leg room in the first class coaches. The Allegro offers wifi internet for all passengers, while the Sapsan offers this feature only for its 1st class passengers.

Sapsan train

There are five to 10 daily departures of "Sapsan" trains between Moscow and St. Petersburg (more during peak summer travel season). It takes about 4 hours to reach Moscow from St. Petersburg by “Sapsan”.

Allegro train

There are three daily departures of high-speed “Allegro” trains from St. Petersburg to Helsinki. It takes about 3 hours to reach the capital of Finland from Russia’s northern capital.

Lastochka train

Lastochka trains run from St. Petersburg to Veliky Novgorod. This is a 2013 newcomer on Russian Railways and now traveling to the picturesque area around Russia's Northern Capital is fast and easy.