This is the longest train journey in the world
Many of us seldom consider trains when planning our travels, opting instead for the comfort of a private car or the speed of air travel. Yet, sometimes the journey itself is more meaningful than the destination.
In today’s fast-paced world, where reaching our destinations quickly is often a priority, train travel still holds a special charm, offering a unique sense of romance and nostalgia.
Now, imagine experiencing the breathtaking landscapes and cultural wonders of multiple countries over a 21-day, 18,755-kilometer adventure. This could soon be a reality, thanks to what is poised to be the longest train journey in the world, stretching from Portugal to Singapore.
This ambitious route was designed by train enthusiasts on Reddit, with input from renowned rail expert Mark Smith, the creator of the popular travel resource seat61.com, which specializes in long-distance rail journeys.
Previously, a continuous train journey of this kind ended in Vietnam, covering around 16,898 kilometers. To reach Singapore, travelers had to switch to a bus from Saigon through Cambodia to Bangkok. However, with the introduction of a new high-speed rail line connecting Kunming in China with Vientiane, Laos, a new possibility has emerged. This opens up the opportunity for a seamless train journey from Beijing to Bangkok, and onward to Singapore, making it the longest uninterrupted train route in the world—a thrilling, though slightly wild, endeavor.
Embarking on this epic adventure comes with an estimated cost of around €1,200, taking travelers through 13 countries, including Spain, Poland, Belarus, Mongolia, Thailand, and Malaysia, before reaching Southeast Asia.
Of course, such a lengthy trip can’t be completed in a single ride without pauses. There will be necessary overnight stops and brief connections between stations along the way, making the journey all the more immersive and diverse.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure that promises to be one of the most unique travel experiences of a lifetime!