The world’s longest train journey is an experience that attracts adventurers and culture lovers alike. Stretching from southern Portugal to vibrant Singapore, this approximately 18,755-kilometer route connects two continents and offers a unique immersion into diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. In this article, we’ll explore every aspect of this epic trip, including its route, iconic stops, and practical tips for those daring enough to embark on this adventure.
The Starting Point: Lagos, Portugal
The journey begins in Lagos, a charming village in the Algarve, known for its stunning beaches and golden cliffs. It’s the perfect place to start, combining natural beauty with a relaxing atmosphere.
Before departure, it’s worth exploring the town. You can visit the Church of Santo António, famous for its tiled interior. A stroll around the harbor and a fresh seafood dinner in a local restaurant set the tone. Portuguese hospitality and warm weather are just a preview of what awaits along the way.
The Route: From Europe to Asia
The train journey from Lagos to Singapore is not direct and requires multiple connections. Along the way, you’ll cross diverse cultures and landscapes. The route can be divided into several stages:
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Portugal to Spain: From Lagos, head to Lisbon, then continue to Madrid or Barcelona, enjoying the Spanish countryside.
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Spain to France: Next stop, Paris—home to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and French cuisine.
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France to Germany: From Paris, travel to Berlin or Munich to experience Germany’s rich history and culture.
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Germany to Poland: Continue to Warsaw or Kraków for architecture and history.
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Poland to Belarus: Pass through Minsk, a city on the rise with strong cultural heritage.
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Belarus to Russia: The next big stretch is a 40-hour ride to Moscow, where the Kremlin and Red Square await.
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Russia to Mongolia: From Moscow, travel to Ulaanbaatar, where nomadic culture and vast steppes impress.
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Mongolia to China: Enter China, where Beijing and Shanghai blend tradition and modernity.
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China to Laos: The new rail link connects Laos to China, opening access to Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng.
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Laos to Thailand: Next, Bangkok, a vibrant city full of temples and markets.
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Thailand to Malaysia: Continue to Kuala Lumpur, home to the iconic Petronas Towers.
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Arrival in Singapore: Finally, reach Singapore, famous for its cleanliness, modernity, and cultural diversity.
Experiences Along the Way
Every stop offers unique opportunities:
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Culture & Cuisine: From Spanish paella to Chinese dim sum, local food is a highlight.
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Meeting People: Train travel allows you to connect with fellow travelers and locals.
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Scenic Landscapes: From the Swiss Alps to the Mongolian plains, the views are unforgettable.
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History & Heritage: Museums and monuments in each city reveal the region’s past.
Practical Aspects of the Journey
Before embarking on this adventure, consider these practical points:
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Visas: Multiple visas are required—plan ahead and gather all documents.
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Train Connections: Plan your itinerary in advance. Seat61.com is a great resource for timetables.
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Luggage: Travel light and comfortably.
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Health & Safety: Check vaccine requirements and carry a small first-aid kit.
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Budget: Plan for tickets, lodging, food, and activities. The trip may cost around €1,200.
Sustainability of Train Travel
Train travel is far more sustainable than flying. For example, a direct flight from Lisbon to Singapore emits about 1.67 tons of CO₂, while the train journey reduces this to just 0.08 tons.
The Magic of Train Travel
One of the most enchanting aspects of train journeys is the experience itself:
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Relaxed Pace: Unlike flights, trains give you time to read, reflect, and enjoy the view.
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Connection with Nature: Crossing rural areas and mountains brings travelers closer to nature.
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Historic Stations: Many train stations preserve their original architecture, adding nostalgia to the trip.
Preparations Before Departure
For a smoother trip, prepare with these steps:
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Research: Learn about local customs and rules in each country.
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Book Accommodation: While some trains offer sleeping cars, hotels and hostels are recommended.
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Stay Connected: Consider an international data plan.
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Flexible Itinerary: Have a plan but leave room for surprises and discoveries.
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Enjoy the Journey: Remember, it’s about both the destination and the ride.
Final Reflections
Embarking on the world’s longest train journey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s a chance to disconnect from routine and immerse yourself in the planet’s diversity. The blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and the rhythm of the rails makes this adventure unforgettable.
From Portugal’s hospitality to Singapore’s modernity, every stop teaches something new and makes you appreciate the beauty of our world.
Would you dare embark on this 21-day adventure from Portugal to Singapore? It’s a journey that will change your perspective and leave an indelible mark on your heart.
The Intersection of Travel and Technology
This journey is not only a celebration of human connection and culture but also of technology. As new rail networks expand, technology plays a crucial role in making such adventures possible while promoting a more sustainable world. Each trip becomes an opportunity to explore, discover, and reflect on how innovation shapes the way we travel.
