World’s longest train journey: Tours across 13 countries, starting from Portugal to…, covers 11,654 miles in 21 days

The world’s longest train journey now connects Portugal to Singapore, spanning 13 countries and 11,654 miles. This 21-day route offers travelers an epic, scenic adventure across two continents.

The latest train journey that was inaugurated last weekend from Lagos in Portugal to Singapore is now considered as the longest train route in the world. The new route via Spain, France, Russia, China and a number of Southeast Asian countries covers 13 nations and measures a total of 11,653 miles or just under 18,800 km. The long train ride, which takes passengers on a cross-continental route takes a total of 21 days to reach its final destination.

For years, the only way to travel from Europe to Southeast Asia was by air. The new train journey was made possible after a number of national railway companies across Southeast Asia and Europe agreed to work together. In addition, the opening of several international border-to-border train routes along the way was also critical to linking the two ends. The new Laos-China cross-border railway was among the most important new train routes that helped to make the trip a possibility.

Europe to Southeast Asia

Passengers aboard the new train service will first be transported from Lagos to Lisbon in Portugal. The train line from Spain continues to take passengers through the Basque region before entering France, Russia, China and a number of countries in Southeast Asia, including Singapore. Major stops along the way also include Paris, Moscow, Beijing and Bangkok, as well as other capital cities. In all, the route has 11 major stops over 21 days, allowing passengers to overnight and experience different destinations one city at a time.

The longest direct train ride on the route takes place from Paris to Moscow, which is a 40-hour journey. All other train rides between countries are direct, meaning that the train line doesn’t make any stops between points A and B. As such, it’s a great opportunity for passengers to enjoy each and every leg of the route. However, passengers will also need to obtain at least seven visas in order to pass through each country on the new train route.

Economic Impact and Value

The cost of the trip is also similar to a long-haul flight between Europe and Singapore, at a little over $1,350. As a result, more travelers are expected to board the train journey to enjoy the many countries and cultures along the way.

The Laos-China cross-border railway is also predicted to help drive both tourism and the local economy as more people choose to ride the scenic train journey instead of opting for a flight.