Boarding a train in the coastal town of Lagos, Portugal, and disembarking three weeks later in the bustling metropolis of Singapore. This isn’t a scene from a travel novel but a reality for those daring enough to undertake the world’s longest train journey, spanning approximately 11,654 miles and traversing 13 countries over 21 days.
Table of Contents
The Journey Begins: Portugal to France
Your adventure commences in Lagos, a picturesque town in Portugal. From here, you make your way to the capital, Lisbon, where the first leg of your rail odyssey begins. The train glides through the Iberian Peninsula, offering views of rolling hills and historic towns, before crossing into Spain. A stop in the Basque region allows for a taste of its unique culture and cuisine. Continuing northeast, the journey brings you into France, with the romantic cityscape of Paris awaiting exploration.
Through the Heart of Europe: France to Russia
Departing Paris, the train embarks on one of its longest continuous stretches: a 40-hour journey to Moscow. This segment offers ample time to relax, socialize with fellow travelers, and watch the European landscape transition from the quaint villages of France to the vast plains of Eastern Europe. Upon arrival in Moscow, the city’s rich history and iconic architecture, such as the Kremlin and Red Square, provide a captivating interlude.
The Trans-Siberian Experience: Russia to China
Leaving Moscow, the journey continues eastward on the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway. This portion of the trip is a voyage through time and space, crossing the Ural Mountains and skirting the edges of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake. The changing scenery, from dense forests to open steppes, showcases Russia’s diverse terrains. As the train approaches the Russian Far East, it crosses into China, where the bustling city of Beijing awaits.
Southeast Asia Unveiled: China to Singapore
In Beijing, travelers can immerse themselves in China’s rich cultural tapestry, visiting landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. The journey then heads south, passing through Vietnam’s lush landscapes and Thailand’s vibrant cities. Each stop offers unique experiences, from sampling pho in Hanoi to exploring Bangkok’s ornate temples. The final leg brings you to Singapore, a city-state that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.
Logistics and Considerations
Embarking on this epic journey requires meticulous planning. Travelers must secure visas for multiple countries, with at least seven visas needed depending on nationality and specific routes. Overnight stays are incorporated into the itinerary, allowing passengers to rest or explore cities along the way. The total travel time on trains amounts to approximately 21 days, but additional days should be allocated for sightseeing and rest.
A Journey Like No Other
This unparalleled train journey offers more than just a means of transportation; it’s an odyssey through diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes. From the old-world charm of Europe to the dynamic rhythms of Asia, passengers experience the world’s vastness in a uniquely intimate way. For those with a spirit of adventure and a love for rail travel, this expedition stands as the ultimate bucket-list experience.
