Lagos, Algarve /Portugal – A gold and white tourist chu chu train. You can take this train from your hotel to the train station to begin the world’s longest train journey.
Discover the 18,755 km rail adventure across 13 countries!
Credit: Shutterstock, Nastia Gomanova
Hold onto your Christmas socks, because Earth’s mightiest train journey starts right here, bang in the Iberian Peninsula, in Portugal. That’s right, this epic rail odyssey covers a staggering 18,755 kilometres across 13 countries in just 21 days! Say what? Say that…
It begins on the sunny shores of Portugal’s coast and winds all the way to the vibrant streets of Singapore. If train spotters ever used trains, it would be a train spotter’s dream come true.
From Lagos to Lisbon: The world’s longest train journey begins…
Ho, ho, hop on board viraltrendingcontent readers, because our epic adventure kicks off in the charming coastal town of Lagos in Portugal’s Algarve region. Known for its stunning beaches and rich history, Lagos sets the perfect stage for what’s about to unfold. Next stop: the bustling Portuguese capital, Lisbon, where you’ll board your first train bound for the City of Lights – Paris!
But don’t expect a one-train wonder. No, no, no. This marathon journey requires multiple connections and planning, a few train changes, and even some bus rides to keep things exciting. But, the real test of endurance begins with a 40-hour stretch to Moscow, where the vastness of Russia and its many bears awaits. From there, brace yourself for the expansive landscapes of China, and exotic stops in Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia, before finally arriving in the dazzling futuristic metropolis of Singapore, where robots can paint and plaster your walls.
Throughout the journey, travellers will be treated to breathtaking vistas – from serene lakes to bustling cities like Beijing and Bangkok. Each of the 13 countries offers a unique cultural experience, making every stop a new adventure. This relatively new line dethrones the old London-Singapore route as the longest railway journey in the world.
Plan your perfect train adventure, starting in Portugal
Thinking of hopping on this rail extravaganza? Prepare yourself with seven visas and a knack for careful planning to juggle schedules and connections. Some legs of the trip, such as between Vietnam and Cambodia, may require a bus or another mode of transport, adding a dash of spontaneity to your travels.
If you’re worried about the cost, wait. It’s not that bad. A ticket price of around €1,200 is comparable to a flight, but with a much greener footprint. A direct flight from Lisbon to Singapore emits approximately 1.67 tonnes of CO₂, whereas this train journey slashes it down to a mere 0.08 tonnes. Travel green and save the planet, one kilometre at a time.
Why choose this scenic slow ride over a lightning-fast flight? Beyond being a sustainable option, travelling by train offers a magical experience. This is more than just a train journey. The rhythmic clatter of the tracks, picturesque landscapes rolling by your window, and the timeless charm of historic stations create memories that last a lifetime. It’s a chance to soak in each moment and truly connect with the world around you.
Packing your bags for this 21-day escapade requires careful organisation, but the rewards are endless. From the sunlit Algarve to the dazzling lights of Singapore, this journey promises to be as unforgettable as the destination itself. So, do you have what it takes to conquer the world’s longest train ride? All aboard for the adventure of a lifetime.
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