For centuries, rail travel has been celebrated in countless stories, from the luxurious Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where the opulence of the Gilded Age comes alive in restored carriages, to the iconic Ghan, whose rails have sliced through the vast Australian outback for over ninety years.
There is an almost mythical quality to the romance of a train ride—an invitation to wander through both time and place. Indeed it can be a longer haul compared to a flight yet, there's magic that stirs the soul and fuels the imagination.
A true aficionado of train travel can gear up to explore the world’s far-flung corners with a journey like no other: the world's longest train journey from Portugal to Singapore.
This train journey spans an astounding 18,755 kilometres and takes a remarkable 21 days to complete. Crossing 13 countries, it winds through iconic cities such as Paris, Moscow, Beijing, and Bangkok.
Immerse in a rare opportunity where diverse cultures and the luxurious comfort of rail travel intertwine. Envision the magic of each overnight stop for the chance to rest, reflect, and explore the rich heritage of each destination.
This is more than just a trip—it’s an expedition, a passage through history and across continents that demands to be experienced.
The starting line lies in the sun-kissed southern shores of Portugal, where the charming city of Lagos beckons, and concludes in the vibrant, pulsating metropolis of Singapore. Once, the London-to-Singapore route claimed the title of the world’s longest train journey, but now, this Portugal-to-Singapore route promises to surpass it in both distance and grandeur.
Along the way, glimpses of scenic landscapes, from the rolling hills of Europe to the ancient, sweeping plains of Asia, will be spotted.
The journey unfolds from the lively streets of Lisbon, Portugal, and winds through the romantic landscapes of Spain, the artistic heart of France, the grandeur of Russia, and the mystique of China. Traversing onward, the verdant beauty of Vietnam, the rich culture of Cambodia, the timeless elegance of Thailand, and the vibrant energy of Malaysia will offer unforgettable moments before you arrive in Singapore, a glittering city of the future.
It's a testament to the power of international collaboration between railway companies, creating a seamless journey that weaves together disparate regions. The dream of connecting Europe and Asia by rail is closer to reality than ever, thanks to new railway lines opening in Laos and China.
Among the many breathtaking stretches, the 40-hour journey from Paris to Moscow will be a thrilling highlight—a true test of endurance and wonder. One's ability to navigate this complex and exhilarating route will be as important as the adventure itself.
But this journey demands meticulous planning: weather conditions, visa requirements, seat reservations, and seamless train transfers must all be carefully coordinated. This includes switching to buses for certain segments—such as the ride from Vietnam to Cambodia and the breathtaking transition from Malaysia to Singapore.
All of this for a cost that rivals a typical flight—1,186.65 Euros—but with an incomparable experience: sweeping landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the sheer thrill of a journey few will ever undertake.
This is more than a train ride—it’s a symphony of experiences, a breathtaking journey that will redefine the way you see the world.