The World’s Longest Train Journey: From Portugal to Singapore in 21 Days

You might like to travel by car and the freedom to make your own stops. But if you have the time, money, and a sense of adventure, taking the world’s longest train journey could be a bucket list experience like no other.

There’s really something magical about traveling by train. It feels nostalgic, like stepping into a time when life was slower, and trains were the best way to explore the world. Before airplanes dominated travel, it was trains that connected continents, bridging cultures together. That same charm still exists today..

Now, imagine boarding a train in Portugal and going all the way to Singapore. From Portugal to Singapore, crossing 13,000 kilometers, through cities, villages, mountains, and forests. Interesting, right?

The world’s longest train journey covers the distance of 18,755 kilometers (11,655 miles).  During this journey, the train travels from Portugal to Singapore, crossing 13 countries and take roughly three weeks to complete. You’d need at least seven visas to legally complete this epic journey.

There are some ground rules for this ultimate itinerary, First, no doubling back, second, no boats, planes, or other forms of transport. Just pure train travel. The route starts in the far west of Eurasia in southern Portugal and end at the southeastern edge of the landmass in Singapore. Along the way, it passes through the heart of Europe, the vast expanse of Russia, and the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia along the way.

The Journey Starts- Portugal to France

The adventure begins in Lagos, a sunny gem on Portugal’s Algarve coast, a region beloved by many tourists. From there, you will travel to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital. After a short connection, you will be taken to Hendaye in the Basque region of France, a great spot for sunshine and surf. Then you’ll continue on to Paris, the romantic City of Light.

Crossing Into Russia

From Paris, the adventure becomes intensifies as the  journey heads east  on a 40-hour train ride to Moscow. Along the way, you’ll pass through Germany, Poland, and Belarus. Moscow is where things start to get epic. You’re now at the gateway to the Trans-Siberian Railway, the longest railway line in the world. The 60-hour journey from Moscow to Beijing, China, crosses the endless taiga and dramatic steppes of Mongolia.

Prepare for long but mesmerizing days as you board the Trans-Siberian train. You will witness vast forests, icy rivers, and endless steppes rolling past your window, creating a landscape that feels both surreal and serene. Along the way, you will encounter highlights such as,

Yekaterinburg: A city on the border of Europe and Asia, rich in history and culture.

Lake Baikal: The world’s deepest freshwater lake, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Irkutsk: Known as the “Paris of Siberia,” this city offers charming wooden architecture and vibrant markets.

The train eventually reaches Vladivostok, Russia’s easternmost city and a gateway to the Pacific.

Southward to China and Beyond

The route from Russia continues into China, where you will stop in Beijing, a city of contrasts. In Beijing, you will see ancient wonders like the Great Wall and Forbidden City standing alongside modern skyscrapers and bustling markets.

Thanks to Laos’ new high-speed railway, you can now travel south through Kunming, and admire the stunning mountain scenery. Prior to the existence of this railway, the route would have passed through Vietnam, reducing the total distance to a “mere” 16,898 kilometers.

On leaving Laos, the train enters Thailand, stopping in Bangkok, a city that hums with energy. From there, it’s a smooth ride into Malaysia, with a key stop at Padang Besar in the north.

The Final Stop- Singapore

The final stretch brings you to Singapore, where the gleaming city-state eagerly awaits. Singapore, modern yet steeped in tradition, offers a perfect finale. Explore Gardens by the Bay, wander through bustling Chinatown, and treat yourself to some iconic hawker fare. You have accomplished the longest train journey in the world- a monumental feat of travel and endurance.

Why Take the Train?

This journey isn’t just about traveling from Portugal to Singapore. It’s about seeing the world up close. Traveling by train, you can see countryside between destinations. From Europe’s historic cities to Siberia’s wild forests, from Southeast Asia’s colorful markets to Singapore’s modern skyline, every view feels like a postcard brought to life.

Additionally, traveling by train is far more environmentally friendly than flying, as it significantly reduces CO2 emissions.  For instance, flying the same distance between Lisbon and Singapore would emit 1.67 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere, while taking the train would only result in 0.08 tonnes being released. This huge difference shows the environmental friendliness of travel by train compared to flying.

Costs and Considerations

The overall cost for this entire trip would cost approximately $1,350 (€1,255) for train tickets alone. Furthermore, you would need to factor in accommodations and meals during stops, since no one can perfectly sync all the connections. Nevertheless, paying a small price for the experience of a lifetime is worth it.

It’s the kind of trip that combines slow travel, cultural immersion, and the pure thrill of covering such a vast distance without leaving the ground. However, current global challenges and geopolitical tensions make this trip more of a dream for now, it’s a journey worth keeping on your bucket list.  Who knows- someday, as borders reopen and trains continue to connect the world, it might become a reality again.

When that day comes, wouldn’t that be a ride of a lifetime?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long is the full train journey from Portugal to Singapore?

The journey spans approximately 18,755 kilometers (11,655 miles). This makes it the longest train journey on Earth, stretching across Europe, Russia, and Southeast Asia.

How much time would this journey take?

The journey would take approximately three weeks, depending on how much time you spend at each stop. The train travel itself covers about 21 days, but adding stops for sightseeing could extend your trip.

What countries does the train pass through?

The train journey crosses 13 countries: Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Belarus, Russia, Mongolia, China, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Is it possible to take this journey in 2024?

Currently, geopolitical tensions and global challenges make this route more of a dream than a reality. Some sections of the route, especially through Russia and Belarus, may not be safe for travelers in 2024 due to restrictions.

How many trains do you need to take?

This journey isn’t a single direct train route. You’ll need to change trains at least seven times, including connections in Paris, Moscow, Beijing, and Bangkok. Planning your itinerary is crucial.

How much does it cost to complete this trip?

The train tickets for the full journey are estimated to cost around $1,350 (€1,255). Accommodation, meals, and other expenses will add to the cost, especially if you stay overnight in cities along the way.

Is train travel environmentally friendly compared to flying?

Yes! Flying the same distance from Lisbon to Singapore emits approximately 1.67 tonnes of CO2 per person, whereas traveling by train produces only 0.08 tonnes of CO2. It’s a significantly greener way to travel.

What are the visa requirements for this journey?

Traveling through 13 countries means you’ll need at least seven visas, including for Russia, China, Mongolia, Laos, and Thailand. Be sure to check the specific visa requirements for each country on your route.

What about accommodations?

While you’ll spend many nights on trains, you’ll likely need hotels during layovers or long stops. Budget options, mid-range hotels, or even hostels are available in major cities like Paris, Moscow, and Beijing

Are meals included on trains?

Some trains, like those on the Trans-Siberian route, offer dining cars or snacks for purchase. However, options can be limited, so packing food or buying local snacks at stops is a smart move.

Can this journey be shortened?

Yes, you can modify the route depending on your preferences. For example, skipping some stops or taking a different path through Southeast Asia can reduce travel time while still covering much of the same distance.

What are some amazing places to see along the way?

What should I pack for such a journey?

• Comfortable clothing for varied climates (Europe’s cool summers to Southeast Asia’s tropical heat).

• Travel documents (passports, visas).

• Snacks and entertainment for long train rides.

• Essentials like power banks, maps, and a reliable travel app.

Will this trip be possible again in the future?

As global challenges ease, borders reopen, and railway networks expand, this route may become a reality for adventurous travelers once more. For now, it’s an ambitious dream, but one that could soon become a reality.