The Longest Train Routes in the World
Trains have long been a symbol of adventure and exploration, connecting vast landscapes and diverse cultures. Some rail journeys stretch for thousands of miles, taking passengers through multiple time zones, breathtaking scenery, and historic landmarks. Here, we explore the longest train routes in the world, showcasing the epic journeys that define rail travel.
1. Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia) – 9,289 km (5,772 miles)
Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
Duration: About 7 days
The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest continuous railway line in the world. Spanning the entire width of Russia, this legendary journey crosses eight time zones, more than a dozen major rivers (including the Volga and Amur), and vast landscapes ranging from the Ural Mountains to Siberian forests. This route offers travelers a unique glimpse into Russia’s culture, history, and stunning wilderness.
Moscow – Explore the Red Square, Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral before departure.
Notable Stops:
Yekaterinburg – Known for its rich history, including the site where the last Russian Tsar was executed.
Novosibirsk – The heart of Siberia, featuring museums and a famous opera house.
Lake Baikal (Irkutsk) – The world’s deepest freshwater lake, a must-see natural wonder.
Vladivostok – A historic port city with stunning ocean views.
Travel Tips:
Bring warm clothes, even in summer—the Siberian climate can be unpredictable.
Pack snacks, as onboard dining can be expensive and limited.
Learn some basic Russian phrases; English is not widely spoken.
2. Moscow to Beijing via Harbin (Russia & China) – 8,986 km (5,584 miles)
Route: Moscow to Beijing (via Harbin)
Duration: About 6 days
This variation of the Trans-Siberian journey takes passengers through Mongolia and China. The route passes through Siberia before turning southward into China, with a stop in Harbin, a city famous for its Russian influence and winter ice festival. Travelers experience a shift in landscapes, from Russian taigas to the Great Wall-adjacent regions of China.
Notable Stops:
Harbin, China – Famous for its Russian architecture and the world-renowned Ice Festival in winter.
Beijing – Home to the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and vibrant street markets.
Travel Tips:
Check visa requirements, as you’ll need separate visas for Russia and China.
Try the local cuisine—Harbin’s Russian-Chinese fusion food is unique.
3. Moscow to Beijing via Ulaanbaatar (Russia, Mongolia & China) – 7,622 km (4,735 miles)
Route: Moscow to Beijing (via Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia)
Duration: About 6 days
Another scenic Trans-Siberian route, this journey traverses Mongolia, taking passengers through the Gobi Desert and the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. This route offers a fascinating cultural mix, as it showcases Russian, Mongolian, and Chinese influences in architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Notable Stops:
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – Visit the Genghis Khan Statue Complex and experience nomadic culture.
Gobi Desert – Breathtaking landscapes of sand dunes and rugged terrain.
Travel Tips:
Bring a camera—the Mongolian steppe and desert offer stunning views.
Be prepared for bumpy tracks through Mongolia, as some sections are less developed.
4. Toronto to Vancouver (Canada) – 4,466 km (2,775 miles)
Route: Toronto to Vancouver (The Canadian)
Duration: About 4 days
Operated by VIA Rail, The Canadian takes travelers across the vast and diverse landscapes of Canada. From the dense forests of Ontario to the sweeping prairies of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and finally, the stunning Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, this journey is one of the most scenic train rides in North America.
Notable Stops:
Winnipeg – Rich in Indigenous culture and history.
Jasper National Park – Incredible mountain scenery and wildlife spotting.
Vancouver – A beautiful coastal city known for its nature and multicultural food scene.
Travel Tips:
Book a sleeper cabin for more comfort.
Bring binoculars—this route is excellent for spotting wildlife like bears and moose.
5. Indian Pacific (Australia) – 4,352 km (2,704 miles)
Route: Sydney to Perth
Duration: About 4 days
The Indian Pacific is one of the longest train routes in the Southern Hemisphere, crossing the entire Australian continent. This journey features the longest straight stretch of railway track in the world (478 km/297 miles) across the Nullarbor Plain. Passengers experience diverse landscapes, from the Blue Mountains of New South Wales to the vast, arid outback of Western Australia.
Notable Stops:
Broken Hill – A historic mining town with unique outback landscapes.
Adelaide – A vibrant city known for its wine regions and cultural scene.
Nullarbor Plain – The longest straight railway track in the world.
Travel Tips:
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and emus in the outback.
The journey includes gourmet dining—try the fresh seafood and Australian wines.
6. California Zephyr (USA) – 3,924 km (2,438 miles)
Route: Chicago to San Francisco
Duration: About 52 hours
The California Zephyr, operated by Amtrak, is often regarded as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the United States. It travels through the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, and the vast plains of the Midwest, offering passengers breathtaking views of rugged canyons, rivers, and alpine scenery.
Notable Stops:
Denver – The gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Glenwood Springs – Famous for its hot springs and scenic canyons.
Reno – The “Biggest Little City in the World,” known for its casinos and nightlife.
Travel Tips:
Sit on the left side when heading west for the best views of the mountains.
Bring a power bank—outlets can be limited on Amtrak trains.
7. The Ghan (Australia) – 2,979 km (1,851 miles)
Route: Adelaide to Darwin
Duration: About 3 days
Named after Afghan camel drivers who once helped explore Australia’s interior, The Ghan takes passengers through the heart of the country. The journey moves from the lush southern coastline through the Red Centre of Australia, passing Alice Springs, and ending in the tropical landscapes of Darwin in the Northern Territory.
Notable Stops:
Alice Springs – Explore the heart of Australia and visit Uluru.
Katherine – Offers scenic boat tours in Nitmiluk Gorge.
Travel Tips:
Take the off-train excursions—canoeing in Katherine Gorge is unforgettable.
The train has excellent dining—try barramundi, a local fish specialty.
These long train routes are more than just transportation—they are epic adventures that take travelers through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes on Earth. Whether crossing Russia’s vast wilderness, traversing the deserts of Australia, or winding through the Rockies, these journeys offer a unique perspective on the world. For those who love slow travel and scenic exploration, these train rides provide an unforgettable experience.
Would you take one of these epic train journeys? Let us know in the comments!
