When considering international travel, airplanes are often the first choice due to their speed and cost-effectiveness.
You might even opt for traveling by car for the added privacy it offers. Yet, if you possess the time, resources, and a spirit of adventure into the unknown, embarking on the longest train route in the world could be an enticing addition to your bucket list.
Train travel carries a romantic and poetic allure, harking back to a bygone era before the advent of airplanes.
Why not savor the breathtaking scenery of over a dozen countries on this epic 21-day, 18,755-kilometer train odyssey spanning Europe, Siberia, and Asia?
The conception of this hypothetical (yet entirely plausible) route stems from the passion of train enthusiasts on the subreddit, aided by insights from the esteemed train expert Mark Smith’s website, seat61.com. This platform is renowned for its wealth of guides and tips on extensive train journeys worldwide.
The recent inauguration of the new Chinese-built $6 billion Boten–Vientiane railway in Laos marks a significant milestone, enabling the realization of this extended route. This railway link connects China to Southeast Asia, opening up new possibilities for transcontinental train travel.
The longest train route in the world begins in southern Portugal, departing from Lagos, and traverses through Spain en route to Paris. However, it’s worth noting that the Lisbon-Hendaye route, which forms part of this journey, is presently suspended due to the ongoing effects of Covid-19 and shows no immediate signs of resuming service. Fortunately, there are alternative routes available to reach Paris from other points, ensuring that the epic transcontinental train journey remains viable.
Following Paris, the route winds through Western Europe before venturing into Eastern Europe and Russia, where the renowned “Trans-Siberian” railway line awaits, spanning approximately 6 days from Moscow to Beijing and traversing Mongolia along the way.
Subsequently, the journey continues through China, culminating in the newly inaugurated Boten-Vientiane railway in Laos, which commenced operations on December 3, 2021.
Previously, travelers would have needed to board a train bound for Saigon. However, it’s important to note that there is no direct railroad connection between Vietnam and Thailand. Instead, the traditional route involved taking a bus through Cambodia en route to Thailand.
With the introduction of the new railroad, the longest train route in the world becomes achievable. Departing from Vientiane, the journey proceeds to Bangkok, Thailand, and from there, embarks on the final leg into the stunning landscapes of Malaysia, culminating in the vibrant city-state of Singapore.
After an estimated 21 days and covering a staggering distance of 18,755 kilometers, travelers will have completed the longest train route in the world, traversing diverse landscapes and experiencing the rich tapestry of cultures along the way.
The estimated cost of €1,200 for this epic journey is remarkably reasonable, especially when compared to the price of a plane ticket from Western Europe to Singapore. Considering that travelers will have the opportunity to experience the cultures of 13 countries along the way, we believe this incredible journey offers unparalleled value and an unforgettable adventure.
Thank you for sharing the map of the journey! I’d love to take a look at it.
