What if we tell you that you could wake up on the beaches of Portugal, sip coffee in Paris and watch sunsets in China; all without boarding a single flight? We are not kidding. Covering an incredible 18,755 km across 13 countries in about 21 days, this is how it feels inside the world’s longest rail journey. Unlike a one train service, this epic adventure is a connected series of international rail routes that links Europe and Asia, making it a bucket-list experience for many. It is a dream trip for every slow traveller and train lover.Let’s find out more about this epic rain sojourn:The Route: From Europe to AsiaThe adventure starts in Lagos, Portugal, which is among Algarve’s most pretty coastal towns. Travellers first explore Lisbon before continuing across Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Belarus (routes depend on current border rules), Russia or Central Asia, China, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and finally Singapore. Today, due to ongoing geopolitical situations and border restrictions involving Russia and Belarus, travellers choose a Central Asian or Turkey–Kazakhstan–China alternative route. *However, the exact itinerary may vary, the total journey remains close to 18,755 km.*Countries commonly included are:
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PortugalSpainFranceGermanyPolandBelarus or alternative transit countryRussia or Kazakhstan (depending on route)ChinaLaosThailandMalaysiaSingaporeSome itineraries also pass through additional European countries depending on train availability.What makes it specialThere’s something extremely freeing about travelling by rail. It allows you to witness dramatic scenery and cultures in real time.Experience:In Portugal: Atlantic coastlines France: Vineyards Central Europe: Alpine sceneryVast Eurasian plainsChinese high-speed rail networksTropical mountains of LaosVibrant BangkokMalaysia’s lush rainforestsSingapore’s futuristic skylineIs there really one train?
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So, No. Well it is not practically possible. So there is no one train that covers the entire distance. Instead, travellers transfer between several national and international train services.The journey has become significantly easier since the opening of the China–Laos Railway in 2021. It was just the right link that was missing between China and Southeast Asia. Combined with Malaysia’s rail network and Singapore’s connections, the journey is now possible.How long does it take?The fastest possible itinerary takes approximately:21 daysAround 18,755 kmOver 20 train changesMultiple overnight journeysSome popular stopovers are:
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LisbonParisBerlinWarsawBeijingKunmingVientianeBangkokKuala LumpurSingaporeThe cost of journeyThe total fare depends on the class of travel, dates, booking and choice of accommodation.As of 2026, a rough estimate is:Train tickets only: €1,200–€2,500 (approximately ₹1.2 lakh–₹2.5 lakh)Accommodation during stopovers: ExtraMeals: ExtraVisas and travel insurance: Additional costsHow to book Bookings must be made in stages. Travellers usually:Book European rail segments through Eurail or national railway operators.Reserve high-speed trains in China through authorised booking platforms or travel agencies.Purchase tickets for Laos, Thailand and Malaysia separately.Book the final Malaysia–Singapore rail connection.It is recommended to book in advance.Documents needed
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Typical requirements include:Passport valid for at least six monthsMultiple visas (depending on nationality and chosen route)Travel insurancePrinted or digital train reservationsLocal payment methods where international cards may not be acceptedVisa rules differ significantly based on nationality and can change frequently.
