longest train journey on europe

What is Europe’s longest train journey?

Sleeper and cross-country trains are in decline in favour of shorter, regional routes. So what is left of Europe's longest railway journeys?

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Europe’s longest train journey? Where to begin? Maybe what’s longer? Britain’s longest train journey , or Germany’s ? So many questions.

On the one hand, Germany is quite a bit larger – its area is 70% more than Great Britain’s. On the other hand, Great Britain is a long, skinny island and Germany is much rounder – the distance from John O’Groats to Lands End is over 1,400km, but you never have to walk over 1,000km to cross Germany in any direction.

And it turns out these factors balance almost each other out. Britain’s longest train, the CrossCountry from Aberdeen in Scotland to Penzance in Cornwall, runs 785 miles or 1,263km. Germany’s longest train was the IC 2216 from Offenburg in the Black Forest to Greifswald on the Baltic coast, which was 1,300km. Though that route looks like it has now ceased operation, so the UK wins.

The Aberdeen to Penzance route isn’t really for people who want to go all the way across the country just to do Europe’s longest train journey. Instead, it’s a way to link together several railway lines and connect some medium-to-large cities that otherwise don’t have many direct services. “Cross-country” trains like these have existed for a century, but because they crossed multiple different company’s lines – and later, multiple British Rail regions – they tended to get ignored.

That’s why, when it privatised the railways, the government created a specific CrossCountry franchise so there was a company dedicated to these underused routes. If you want to get from Edinburgh to Leeds or Derby to Bristol , you’ll probably want a CrossCountry train.

The usual route is Edinburgh to Plymouth , but once a day they run an extra long one. Just one way though – there’s no Penzance to Aberdeen train. 

The longest train in Germany was weird – at 1,400 km, it’s substantially longer than the country itself. On the map, the reason is obvious – it took a huge C-shaped route. (It also doubled back on itself at one point in order to reach Stuttgart).

This route took it down the Rhine, the biggest river in west Germany, and through the most densely populated patch of the country around Cologne and Dusseldorf known as the Ruhr. Germany’s second and third longest trains also have quite similar routes – they start and end in remote corners of the country, but all three have the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan area in the middle.

[Read more: Europe’s night trains are under threat – and campaigners are moving to defend them ]

You weren’t meant to take the IC 2216 all the way from north-east to south-west anyway – there are much more direct options available. Instead, it was for people who wanted to travel to these major cities. They could run two separate trains – say, Offenburg-Dusseldorf and Griefswald-Cologne – but making it a single route meant passengers benefited from a bit more flexibility.

France’s longest train exists for a very good reason. Most of France’s high-speed lines radiate out from Paris, and it’s very hard to get around the country without going to the capital. Usually, to get from Marseille on the Mediterranean to Nantes near the Atlantic, you’d need to take a TGV to Paris Gare de Lyon station, then get the Métro across the city to Gare Montparnasse.

Once a day though, this TGV avoids this faff by stopping in the suburb of Juvisy and turning around without going into the centre. This lets passengers travel direct between the coasts and reduces the traffic through Paris’s terminals during rush hour. The exact length of this route isn’t clear, but Wikipedia says it’s about 1,190km.

Spain’s longest train is very different. This is the Trenhotel sleeper service from Barcelona to Vigo, and it’s pretty fancy. This is a train for tourists and business travellers, with some quite luxurious sleeping cabins. But it is a regularly scheduled train run by the state operator Renfe, not a luxury charter, and it does appear in the timetables .

Being dry, hot and quite mountainous in its middle, most of Spain’s cities are on its coast (Madrid is the one major exception) and as a result, the train passes through relatively few urban areas. (Zaragoza, Spain’s fifth largest city, is on the route, but after that the next biggest city is Burgos, its 35th largest,)

This is partly why overnight trains work so well on the route – without many stops in the middle, most passengers can just sleep right through the journey, although there are occasional daytime trains on that route too if you want to savour the view on that 1,000km journey.

Finally, there’s Italy. This is another sleeper train, from Milan in the north to Syracuse on the island of Sicily. It goes via Rome and travels along the west coast of… wait, it’s a train to the island of Sicily? How, when there’s no bridge?

Well, this train takes a ferry. It’s just a train that they literally drive onto a ferry, sail across the water, and then drive off again at the other side.

Not the longest in Europe

Incredibly, the longest train in Europe doesn’t actually cross a single border. Unsurprisingly, it’s in Russia, but it’s not the Trans-Siberian – the vast majority of that route is in Asia, not Europe.

If you really want a long European train journey, head to Adler, just south of the Olympic host city Sochi. From there, you can catch a train up to Vorkuta on the edge of the Arctic Circle. The route zigzags a bit over its 89-hour, 4,200km journey, but it always stays on the European side of the Ural mountains.

[Read more: Why are trains in the UK so expensive?]

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Longest Train Journey Europe – See As Much As Possible on This Train Ride

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Some people think that trains belong to bygones of the past and that no one uses them anymore for anything other than to transport goods, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth.

There are many train lines that crisscross the continent of Europe on both a domestic and international level, carrying passengers to their destinations over vast distances on a regular basis.

Continue reading to learn more about the longest train journey legal passengers can enjoy on the continent of Europe.

What is the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

Naturally, many people will instantly think of the Trans-Siberian Express as the longest train journey in Europe or, indeed, the whole world. 

They aren’t technically wrong, but a good proportion of the Trans-Siberian Express crosses over borders into the continent of Asia, which can disqualify it as the longest train journey in Europe for some.

In actuality, the longest train ride you can legally take that stays in Europe in its entirety is not very well-known. 

It is a simple train line that runs from Sochi, the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics, in the south of Russia, to the city of Vorkuta in northwestern Russia, above the Arctic Circle.

This about 2402.8-mile journey (just short of 3900 kilometers) runs on a daily basis as it zigzags up Russia, staying just west of the Ural mountain range (often used as a natural designation of where Europe and Asia meet).

When Should You Take the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

Most of the tickets that can be booked for the longest train journey in Europe are probably wealthy businessmen and women willing to commute over long distances for a week or two at a time. 

That being said, the average cost of a ticket on the longest train ride in Europe isn’t unattainable at $180 per person. It seems that most, if not all, of the trains also originate in Vorkuta before ending up way further south in Sochi.

What this means is that it is probably best to buy tickets to experience the northwestern region of Russia during the summer months when temperatures aren’t as bitter cold, and inclement precipitation is less likely to be causing issues for travel and sightseeing.

Which Countries do You Pass Through while Taking the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

Unfortunately, the only country that you will pass through while on the longest train journey in Europe while on the Vorkuta-Sochi line is Russia. 

Even so, it is possible to get some rather scenic views along the route, especially as the climate begins to shift and give way to new environments or biomes.

If you’re more interested in visiting as many countries as possible instead of taking the longest train journey in Europe, try something known as “interrailing” across the mainland countries of the European Union.

Why Should You Book a Ticket for the Longest Train Journey in Europe?

The start and end points (Vorkuta and Sochi, respectively) are both interesting places to visit before embarking on the longest train trip in Europe.

Vorkuta is a city steeped in the history of the Soviet Union’s coal mining operations as well as the forced labor camp known as Vorkutlag. Learning about these topics can be rewarding and humbling for many people.

The city is also situated close to the permafrost of the Arctic, so if you are looking to experience some of the colder, natural temperatures on the planet, Vorkuta is a good place to start.

On the tail end of the journey, Sochi is home to where the 2014 Winter Olympics were held. But, if competition isn’t what you like, Sochi also offers both natural and historical attractions beyond the grounds of the Winter Olympics. 

Leaving Vorkuta to go to Sochi would be a good idea in the summer since Sochi is going to be so much warmer, which then affords you the opportunity to load up on attractions such as the beach.

Aside from what the cities have to offer, taking the longest train ride in Europe allows you to brag about knowing the correct answer to that question, as well as mentioning that you have ridden that train line is another great reason to book a ticket.

When all else fails, the scenery as it passes by the closest window will make for picturesque or stunning memories.

How Much Does the Longest Train Journey in Europe Last?

This question has multiple answers, which may surprise some people. The average duration of a train ride from Vorkuta to Sochi (or vice versa) lasts three days and 3 hours (a total of 75 hours or so).

However, this is the average time it takes for the daily train between Vorkuta and Sochi to make it from each place. The fastest train shaves off an impressive 10 hours or so from the average time giving it a journey time of just two days and 17 hours.

Likewise, there are trains on the slower side of the spectrum that can add another 10 to 12 hours to the average journey time, especially if the train is operating on a weekend or holiday.

Final Thoughts on the Longest Train Journey Europe

The Vorkuta-Sochi train line may not be as memorable or as easy to say as the Trans-Siberian Express, but it is truly a delight to be able to ride the longest train journey in Europe. 

Especially when you plan a vacation with the right timing. Just make sure to bring something to entertain yourself with for a bit during those long days spent on the train.

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22 of the best rail journeys in Europe

See Europe how it was meant to be seen: from the window of a train! From mountain climbs to luxury sleepers, here’s the rail adventures you must add to your bucket list…

1. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Glacier Express, Switzerland (Shutterstock)

Best for… Seeing Switzerland in the slow lane

The journey: Zermatt to St Moritz (290km; seven and a half hours)

We say… Don’t be fooled by its name: the Glacier Express averages 38kph, but who wants to rush when the scenery is this spectacular?

Linking two of Switzerland’s best-loved ski resorts, the route is an opus of snowcapped peaks, rugged valleys, 291 bridges and wild tangles of alpine forest. The view will keep you glued to the train’s panoramic windows – though the traverse of the towering Landwasser viaduct might have you reaching for a second glass of Valais wine.

Top tip: In Zermatt you can extend your trip by taking Europe’s highest cog railway to the summit of Gornergrat (3,089m). The view of the Matterhorn is worth it.

Read next : Switzerland’s most stunning rail journeys

2. odontotos rack railway, greece.

Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece (Shutterstock)

Best for… Peaks and valleys

The journey: Diakopto to Kalavrita (22.5km; one hour)

We say… Making delightfully slow work of a wild Peloponnese gorge, this heritage railway – built in 1895 – is one of southern Greece’s final remaining narrow gauge lines.

It starts in the seaside town of Diakopto and weaves up to the mountain town of Kalavrita through hand-carved tunnels and plane-tree forests. En route, you’ll cross 49 bridges in total, as the Vouraikos River roils far below.

Top tip: To visit nearby Olympia’s ancient temples and stadium, take the small train from Katacolon – yet another narrow-gauge survivor.

3. Rhine Valley Line, Germany

The Rhine Valley Line, Germany (Shutterstock)

Best for… A riverside ramble

The journey: Cologne to Mainz (152km; two and a half hours)

We say… The Rhine Valley Line finds its muse just after Bonn, where it starts to tightly hug the waterline. Sure, you could take the high-speed intercity route and save yourself an hour on your journey, but then you’d miss out on the patchwork of vineyards, Koblenz’s hilltop fortress and the legend of Lorelei Rock.

Top tip: Interrail passes are valid on this line – and get you a discount on KD Rhine Line boats.

4. Venice Simplon Orient-Express, UK, France & Italy

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Shutterstock)

Best for…The ‘golden age’ of rail

The journey: London to Folkestone; Calais to Venice (1,636km; 24 hours)

We say… While the final descendent of the real Orient Express met its end in 2009, a US businessman had long since bought up 1920s and ‘30s carriages (many belonging to the original service) and resurrected its route to Venice.

This journey is played out on two heritage trains – the British Pullman on the UK leg and the VSOE between Calais and Venice – and as the mountains and meadows slip by, you can sip martinis in the piano bar, devour lobster in its Étoile du Nord restaurant car and just dream.

Top tip: Though the southbound journey is popular, the northbound experience is just as fabulous – and doesn’t book up so quickly.

Read next: The best new rail routes around the world for 2022

5. west highland line, scotland.

Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Lane, Scotland (Shutterstock)

Best for… The wildest of Scottish rides

The journey: Glasgow to Mallaig (264km; five and a half hours)

We say… After slipping away from Glasgow, the West Highland Line weaves some of Britain’s wildest scenery: to lonely moorlands, forest-bound lochs and crumbling castle ruins.

Up here, you’re more likely to spot red deer than humans – though the Glenfinnan Viaduct is familiar thanks to its cameo in the Harry Potter films. If travelling southwards, sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best views.

Top tip: The Royal Scotsman and Jacobite Steam Train are rather luxurious – if pricey – alternatives to this £16.80 (one-way) ScotRail journey.

6. Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Bernina Express (Shutterstock)

Best for… Jaw-dropping (and ear-popping) views

The journey: Landquart to Tirano (163km; five hours)

We say… Starting this summer, you get even more bang for your buck on the Bernina Express , as its trans-alpine journey has been extended for around 50km. It now starts (or terminates) at Landquart before looping through the Prättigau mountains and over Zügen Gorge’s sheer-sided ravines.

Running between May and October, its climax is the 2,253m-high Bernina Pass, the gateway to Italy. It’s a smooth ride but one that’s big on drama, encompassing dizzying and panoramic views from the Brusio Spiral viaduct along the way.

Top tip: For the best views, grab a seat on the rig.

7. Mariazell Railway, Austria

The Narrow Gauge or Mariazell Railway in the Austrian Alps (Shutterstock)

Best for… Alpine hikes and hijinx

The journey: St Pölten to Mariazell (78km; two and a half hours)

We say… Traversing one of the wildest regions of the Austrian Alps, this narrow-gauge service is officially split into two sections: ‘Valley’ and ‘Mountains’.

The former stretches from St Pölten to Frankenfels, a land of pretty grazing meadows and gentle pathways (tickets allow you to hop on and off), while the latter climbs up through the ruggedly handsome Erlauf gorge and the peaks of Ötscher-Tormäuer Naturpark. Allow a full day – at least.

Top tip: For widescreen views, grab a first-class panorama carriage (May to October on weekend and holiday services), while heritage rail fans love the 100-year-old Ötscherbär train that runs from June to late September.

8. Inlandsbanan, Sweden

Inlandsbanan train pulling into Mora, Sweden (Shutterstock)

Best for… A jovial jaunt

The journey: Kristinehamn to Gällivare (1,288km; from two days)

We say… The Inlandsbanan is slow travel at its best, heading up past the Arctic Circle and into Swedish Lapland. In fact, its drivers love an excuse to stretch their legs, and scheduled stops to take a dip in Lake Siljan or visit Sami villages and their reindeer herds along the way are worth it.

Before you know it, you’re cooing over moose and foraging for berries under midnight sun (June to early July) – all thoughts of the timetable long forgotten.

Top tip: At each stop you can order fresh dishes from local restaurants, such as smoked Arctic char and lingonberry crumble.

9. Trenino Verde, Sardinia, Italy

The Green Train travelling through Italy (Shutterstock)

Best for… Island adventures

The journey: Palau to Tempio (59km); Sindia to Bosa (33km); Mandas to Laconi (37km); Mandas to Sadali (58km); Arbata to Gairloch (62km); times vary

We say… The best way to get under the skin of Sardinia is by catching the Trenino Verde – or Green Train – for a picturesque pootle around the island. The Mandas-Laconi line weaves through wild woodlands, the Palau-Tempio track culminates in a town famed for its cork groves, and Sindia–Bosa forges from the island’s untamed interior out to its western coast.

Top tip: Don’t be surprised if the conductor hops out to shoo sheep off the line, or to stop traffic at level crossings. Slow travel at its purest.

Read next: Italy’s most spectacular rail journeys

10. la ligne des cévennes, france.

La Ligne des Cévennes, France (Shutterstock)

Best for… Gallic grandeur

The journey: Clermont-Ferrand to Nîmes (304km; six and a half hours)

We say… Every twist and turn of this train line is an engineering marvel: it ticks off a mighty 106 tunnels and over a thousand bridges, as well as the seriously lofty (46m high) Chamborigaud viaduct.

With 29 long-legged arches arranged in a semicircular loop, Chamborigaud is a scene-stealer – although the track reaches its pinnacle on the summit at La Bastide (1,023m). There are gentler pleasures still to be found in the rolling vineyards of the Auvergne, the chestnut forests of Cévennes National Park and the track’s picturesque dalliance with the River Allier.

Top tip: Visit in springtime to see the area’s wildflowers in bloom.

11. Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine, Northern Ireland

Derry/L:ondonderry, Northern Ireland (Shutterstock)

Best for… A budget Irish beauty

The journey: Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine (55km; 38 minutes)

We say… This route doesn’t need five-star cabins or steam locomotives for wow-factor: it’s all about the scenery. Explore a banquet of windswept beaches, razor-edged cliffs and wild views on the no-frills Translink service.

Sit on the left-hand side (if travelling eastwards) and settle in for a ride that Sir Michael Palin hailed in his Great Railway Journeys series as “one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world”, as you hop-skip peregrine falcon habitats and the thread the longest railway tunnels in Ireland.

Top tip: Stop for a yomp on the wide, wild sands of Benone beach.

12. Linha do Douro, Portugal

Pinhão Station, Portugal (Shutterstock)

Best for…Giving the city the slip

The journey: Porto to Pocinho (160km; three and a half hours)

We say… Don’t take a day cruise from Porto: hop on the Linha do Douro instead. Most boat trips only venture as far as the port-producing village of Pinhão, but this train line ploughs further into the heartlands, past great walls of rock and rambling quintas (wine estates).

Better yet, the track swaps between shores, so there’s no such thing as a duff seat. Pinhão Station must be one of Europe’s prettiest terminals, trimmed with intricate azulejo tilework, but look out, too, for the towering gorge around Régua and the ancient rock art of the Côa Valley at Pocinho.

Top tip: In Pocinho, linger over lunch and local port at Taberna da Julinha (+351 965 398 826) – its steaks are worth the trip alone.

13. Septemvri to Dobrinishte, Bulgaria

Tsepina on the Septemvri to Dobrinishte, Bulgaria (Shutterstock)

Best for… Making new friends

The journey: Septemvri to Dobrinishte (125km; five hours)

We say… Bulgaria’s only operating narrow-gauge railway is a lifeline to its remote south-west, so make room for the babas (grandmothers) heading to market.

The train travels at a glacial speed (you can walk beside it in parts), but it’s a journey to savour, with stops for hiking in Bansko, Velingrad’s hot springs and Belitsa’s dancing bear sanctuary.

Top tip: The train only has a simple café on board, so bring a picnic.

14. El Transcantábrico Clásico, Spain

León, Spain (Shutterstock)

Best for… Exploring the north

The journey: León to Santiago de Compostela (643km; four to eight days)

We say… Never has the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela felt so indulgent. El Transcantábrico ’s lavish compartments and plentiful excursions make for an easy, enlightening ride.

The Clásico itinerary hugs the northern coast, with stop-offs at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, seafood suppers in Santander and, on longer trips, hiking in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Picos de Europa National Park.

Top tip: The rail network actually runs between San Feliz and Ferrol – a few kilometres shy of León and Santiago de Compostela – so the trip is bookended by brief coach journeys.

Read next: 6 of the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains

15. belgrade to bar, serbia, bosnia & montenegro.

Mala Rijeka Viaduct, Serbia (Shutterstock)

Best for… A cross-country caper

The journey: Belgrade to Bar (476km; 10 hours)

We say… This Balkan line can’t be booked online with national operators, so you’ll need to get tickets at the counter, but once on board you’ll hop ravines and rivers with the greatest of ease, thanks to its 254 tunnels and 435 bridges.

It took railway engineers decades to blast through the Dinaric Alps, traverse the thick birch forests, skirt the shores of Lake Skadar and build the 200m-high Mala Rijeka viaduct, which, until 2001, was the tallest railway bridge in the world.

Top tip: Local sources state this train is currently only operating a night time service. Boo we say! But look out for the return of its day time schedule.

16. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Turkey to Hungary

Golden Eagle Danube Express (Shutterstock)

Best for… The east with ease

The journey: Istanbul (Turkey) to Budapest (Hungary) via Bulgaria & Romania (1,832km; seven days)

We say… On the Danube Express ’s ‘Castles of Transylvania’ route, you’ll whizz between two of Europe’s most beguiling cities in the lap of luxury.

Off-train excursions allow for easy exploration of medieval towns and Romanian castles, while the onboard experience includes opulent perks: think plush double cabins, starched linens and piano recitals.

Top tip: Spend your time socialising in the cocktail lounge; this journey tends to attract fascinating souls.

17. North York Moors Railway, England

Vintage passenger train on the North York Moors Railway (Shutterstock)

Best for… A time-travelling treasure

The journey: Whitby to Pickering (38.6km; one hour, 45 minutes)

We say… With a shrill whistle and a scorching blast, this steamy trip into the North York Moors National Park begins in lively Whitby, so spare time to visit its recenty reopened Abbey.

From there, it travels windswept dales, lush carpets of heather and, so it seems, time itself. Though devoid of most mod cons, the NYMR’s hundred-year-old steam trains make surprisingly quick work of these rolling moors, as you stop off for picnics and village walks along the way.

Top tip: For a taste of life at the steamy end, join the railway’s ‘experience days’ and ride on the footplate.

18. Bohinj Railway, Slovenia & Italy

Bohinj Railway, Slovenia (Shutterstock)

Best for… Slovenia made simple

The journey: Jesenice to Trieste (approx 150km; three hours)

We say… To ford the peaks of the Julian Alps to the northernmost sliver of Italian coastline, the Bohinj Railway must slice a route it has plied for over 110 years.

It was built as a strategic network for the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, but these days it’s catnip for hikers and cyclists who revel in the easy connections to Most na Soci, Lake Bled and Nova Gorica’s wineries.

Top tip: For a special trip, catch the heritage steam train (May to November) between Jesenice and Nova Gorica, where staff still don the uniforms of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire.

19. Semmering Railway, Austria

Semmering Railway, Austria (Shutterstock)

Best for… UNESCO-listed joys

The journey: Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag (41km; 40 minutes)

We say… Praised by UNESCO as ‘one of the greatest feats of civil engineering’, the Semmering teeters on two-storey viaducts and narrow mountain passes, with twists and steep inclines aplenty.

The reward for your fortitude? Swoon-worthy views of the Austrian Alps, and opportunities for great hiking or skiing. It took six years and 20,000 labourers to build this track, and this pioneering project from the 1850s became the blueprint for mountain railways all over the world.

Top tip: Gloggnitz is just an hour by train from Vienna, so don’t miss out.

20. Bergen Railway, Norway

Bergen Railway, Norway (Shutterstock)

Best for… Scandi splendour

The journey: Oslo to Bergen (500km; six and a half hours)

We say… Even in the cosy comfort of your compartment, Norway’s desolate Hardangervidda plateau will send a shiver down your spine. While the forests and lakes outside Oslo are beautiful, it’s the Bergen Railway ’s eerily empty mountain passes that steal the show.

Stretch your legs at Finse, the highest station on the line (1,222m), to see where Robert Falcon Scott and his crew trained in advance of their infamous 1912 South Pole expedition. A lonely spot indeed.

Top tip: Hop off at Myrdal and pick up the extraordinary 20km branch line to Flam (one hour), whose spiral tunnels and steep gradient will sweep you up further into these breathtaking mountains.

21. Brocken Railway, Germany

Brocken Railway, Germany (Shutterstock)

Best for… Saving your legs

The journey: Drei Annen Hohne to Brocken (19km; 51 minutes)

We say… The summit of Brocken (the Harz mountains’ loftiest point) is a doddle for these steam trains (which, if you book online, you’ll have to do in German). They climb thick pines and wildflower meadows up to the 1,141m peak, forming one of three lines on the Harz Railway, Europe’s longest network (140km) still running daily steam trains.

Top tip: Buy a one-way ticket and hike back down, walking the famed trail to Torfhaus.

22. Ffestiniog Railway, Wales

Ffestiniog Railway, Wales (Shutterstock)

Best for… Steaming Snowdonia

The journey: Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog (21.7km; one hour 15 mins)

We say… Operated by the oldestsurviving train company in the world, the Ffestiniog Railway has run for almost 200 years through Snowdonia National Park, and has a gleaming troupe of steam locomotives. The route is a rich feast of rivers, waterfalls, mountains and ancient woodlands, with a looping spiral section lending some thrills.

Top tip: Add on the Welsh Highland Railway – Ffestiniog’s sister route – between Porthmadog and Caernarfon to extend your fun.

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Journey On The Orient Express: Ride Europe's Famous, Luxury, Long Distance Train

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• The Orient Express, made famous by Agatha Christie's novel, still exists today but in different forms and routes.
• A revived Orient Express is planned to be launched in 2025, offering travelers the opportunity to ride in original 100-year-old train cars.
• Another train service called the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express, operated by Belmond, offers a classic 5-night journey from Paris to Istanbul.

Hopefully, there will be no murder on the Orient Express as travelers enjoy one of the longest, most famous, luxurious train journeys in Europe. Few trains conjure up the nostalgia and sense of adventure of the golden age of train travel as the legendary Orient Express was made famous by Agatha Christie's 1934 murder mystery novel Murder on the Orient Express and its subsequent movie adaptations.

The good news is that travelers can still hop aboard the historic Orient Express today for a trip across Europe.

What To Know About The Historic Orient Express

The orient express still exists today, but not in its original form.

The Orient Express was started in 1883 by a Belgian company and it traveled across Europe. Its main and most famous route was from Paris to Istanbul (plus it had branches that connected London, Athens, Brussels, and other cities).

The actual route (and the rolling stock) of the Orient Express changed many times over the years. Like other trains, the Orient Express fell victim to high-speed trains and cheap commercial flights.

The Orient Express was the longest-distance passenger train service that operated from 1883 to 2009 and continues today with different routes . Today, there is no singular 'Orient Express' route operated by a single train operator.

• Period: 1883 to 2009 (until 1977 to Istanbul)
• Core Route: Paris to Istanbul

The Orient Express stopped servicing Istanbul in 1977 with the route instead ending at Bucharest in Romania and then Budapest in Hungary. Finally, the route was shortened to Vienna in Austria.

Related: The Catskill Mountain Railroad Is One Of The Most Scenic Winter Rides

To some degree, the name 'Orient Express' is used to describe luxury, intrigue, and long-distance European railway travel. There are a number of trains in Europe that use the 'Orient Express' branding.

For example, the Orient Express La Dolce Vita is a luxury long-distance train with eight different itineraries around Italy.

Ride In Original 100-Year-Old Train Cars From The Orient Express

A revived orient express train will salvage the original train's cars.

The Orient Express is also planned to be relaunched in 2025 possibly from Paris to Istanbul. It will have stops along the way to discover some of the best in Europe. The exact route of this new Orient Express is not yet detailed on its website.

From 2025, travelers will be able to relieve the legend of the Orient Express by traveling aboard the 17 original cars of the train. These cars date back to the 1920s and the 1930s. They are a set of cars that were formerly known as the ‘Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express.’

The cost of this journey has not yet been released, but it will likely be expensive.

• Route: Paris to Istanbul (possible)
• When: From 2025
• Train Cars: Historic Original ‘Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express’ Cars

The train oozes glitz and glamor, combining modern comforts with the style of the historic train.

This resurrected Orient Express may also become one of the most legendary sleeper train journeys in the world ; the design of the train's cars, bars, and services is focused on nostalgic luxury.

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Try Belmond's Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express From Paris To Istanbul

Another orient express train offers a classic trip.

Belmond operates the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Istanbul (and a number of other itineraries around Europe). This Paris to Istanbul service takes 5 nights and departs only once a year. This is a classic train journey that explores a number of romantic cities across Europe.

• Duration: 5 Nights
• Route: Paris to Istanbul
• Cost: Cabins From £17,500 (approx. $21,750 USD) per passenger

The available cabins on Belmond's 'Orient Express' include the historic cabin, twin and double suites, and the grand suite. The journey spends three nights aboard the train and overnight accommodation in Bucharest and Budapest.

Excursions on the journey include city tours of Burcharest and Budapest as well as a Danube cruise and a visit to Peles Castle tucked away in Romania.

As a luxury train journey, the train has sumptuous four-course dinners with a selection of wines. Passengers are expected to be dressed in formal attire for evening meals and smart casual wear during the day.

Other Train Experiences To Try

There are a number of luxury train journeys around the world and some of these are virtually palaces on wheels. The Deccan Oddesay is a real Indian palace on wheels reliving the period of the Raj and exploring some of the most famous destinations in India.

In Scotland, the Royal Scotsman is perhaps the most luxurious train journey in Great Britain and explores the stunning Highlands of Scotland.

North America has its own selection of legendary train journeys to select from, including the stunningly beautiful Canadian Rock Mountaineer . Also in Canada, travelers can take a 'real' Polar Express to see polar bears and the northern lights to the remote town of Churchill on the Hudson Bay in Manitoba.

In the United States, heritage trains are often a flashback to the Wild West and the settlement of the American West. Of course, the most iconic —and most famous — European train trip is still the Orient Express.

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This is The Longest Train Route in the World as of 2024

When it comes to international travel, airplanes typically come to mind as it makes for a quicker and cheaper journey.

You may even prefer traveling via car as it offers more privacy. However, if you have time, money, and a sense of adventure into the unknown, then doing the longest train route in the world might be on your bucket list.

Traveling by train imparts something romantic and poetic, reminiscent of days long gone before planes even existed.

Why not enjoy the fantastic scenery of over a dozen countries on this epic 21-day, 18,755-kilometer train journey across Europe, Siberia, and Asia?

The hypothetical (but totally possible) route is the brainchild of train lovers on the subreddit and with help from the train expert Mark Smith’s website seat61.com, a popular place for guides and tips on long train journeys around the world.

This longer route has only recently become possible with the opening of the new Chinese-built $6 billion Boten–Vientiane railway in Laos that connects China to Southeast Asia.

The longest train route in the world starts in southern Portugal in Lagos, making its way through Spain on towards Paris.

The Lisbon-Hendaye route is currently suspended due to Covid-19 and doesn’t seem to be coming back anytime soon. There are alternate routes to get to Paris. e

After Paris, you’ll head through the rest of Western Europe until the journey reaches Eastern Europe and Russia with the famous “Trans-Siberian” railway line taking around 6 days from Moscow to Beijing and covering Mongolia on the way.

Next, you’ll go from Boten to Vientiane, Laos after a long journey through China. The new railroad just opened on Dec 3, 2021.

Before this, you would have had to take a train to Saigon, but no railroad connects Vietnam and Thailand. The old way to make this journey is from a bus through Cambodia and on to Thailand.

Now with the new railroad, the longest train route in the world is now possible. From Vientiane, you’ll reach Bangkok, and from there it’s the last leg of the journey into spectacular Malaysia, finally ending in Singapore.

21 estimated days and 18,755km later you’ll finally make the longest train route in the world.

The cost of this epic journey is an estimated €1,200 which is not much more than a plane ticket from Western Europe to Singapore, and you’ll get to see 13 countries on the way, we think the amazing journey is definitely worth it.

Here is a high res version of the map of the journey if you’re interested.

**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.

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• The World's Longest Train Journeys

Rail transportation is one of the oldest forms of modern transport. Even today, it is used by hundreds of millions of people around the world. In many places, trains are often the cheapest option for long distance travel across land. Furthermore, it can also be comfortable and enjoyable as trains tend to be spacious and allow passengers to observe their surroundings. In addition to passenger transport, trains also allow large amounts of goods to be transported and serve an important role in the economy of imports and exports. The world's longest rail journey is the Trans-Siberian Railway. 

Longest Train Services

Trans-siberian railway.

The longest train service in the world is known as the Trans-Siberian Railway. It runs from Moscow, Russia to Vladivostok, Russia. This train service is used for both tourist transportation and transporting goods across the country, and is the most important train service in Russia. Approximately 30% of Russia’s exports travel through this train service. The total time it takes this train to get from start to finish is nearly six days and in this time it covers over 9,000 kilometers.

Chinese Train Services

After the Trans-Siberian Railway, the next three longest train services in the world are located in China with the longest being the service from Guangzhou to Lhasa. The Train that operates on this route is the T264, and it is operated by China Railways. The primary purpose of this train is to serve as a passenger mover, and a train departs on this route once a day. The time this train takes to reach its final destination is approximately 2 and a half days and in this time it covers almost 5000 kilometers.

Toronto to Vancouver, Canada

Another long train service is found in Canada between Toronto and Vancouver. The train that runs this route is called the Canadian, and it is operated by Via Rail Canada. This train is a passenger train, and it is known to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The total time it takes for this train to reach its final destination is over three days and the distance it covers in this time is 4,446 kilometers. This journey is the longest train service in North America, and it is the fifth longest train service in the world. A train on this route leaves three times a week.

Tourism Aspect of Train Services

All of these train services attract many tourists, both domestic and international. The Trans-Siberian Railway is very popular for international visitors, but it also attracts a large number of Russians. Similar can be said about all these trains as they attract many domestic and international tourists. It is not always that the tourists use these services to get from one place to another, but often they avail these services to enjoy the experience. The main reason for this is the scenic settings of these train routes. With all this is mind, it can be safe to say that train services are a big part of the tourism industry.

Longest Train Services In The World

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The World's Longest Train Journeys

Train journeys.

Trains have always been an exciting way to travel, whether it involved Great Britain's elegant and speedy Mallard steam locomotive of late 1930s vintage or more modern state-of-the-art high-speed rail systems such as Japan's Shinkansen, France's TGV or Germany's ICE. As some parts of the world such as the UK and Israel finally experience some relief in their battles against Covid-19 through widespread vaccination, people are finally starting to dream about traveling again. For rail enthusiasts planning for some spectacular post-pandemic experiences, now is certainly a good time to plan ahead and chart a journey on some of the longest train routes on the planet.

An interesting feature published by The Telegraph took a look at the longest direct rail routes that do not involve changing train. The Trans–Siberian Railway which connects Moscow with the Russian far east is still the world's longest direct rail route, running for 9,259 kilometers or 5,753 miles. The journey passes through the Ural Mountains, Siberia's birch forests and Lake Baikal, taking six days according to The Telegraph. The second-longest route without changing can be found in Canada with the journey from Toronto to Vancouver covering 4,466 kilometers or 2,775 miles. Third place goes to China where the stretch between Shanghai and Lhasa covers 4,373 kilometers of 2,717 miles.

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The best train rides in Europe: 10 amazing journeys for 2024

Jan 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Incredible scenery awaits traveling through the Bernese Alps; Jungfrau, Switzerland © Thomas Barwick / Getty

There’s something magical about a journey by train.

Sometimes the magic is inside – on a train you have room to move and meet people, dine in a restaurant car with white tablecloths, and sleep in a private compartment between crisp, clean sheets with the sound of steel wheels swishing on the rails beneath you. Sometimes the magic is outside, in the landscape the train traverses – an adventure, an experience, an insight into the heart of a nation.

Below are some of the most beautiful train rides in Europe – some well known, some less so, some luxurious and expensive, others true bargains. From countryside views and mountain villages to alpine passes and landmark bridges (with a little wildlife spotting thrown in for good measure), the continent offers up some of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The best European train trips include the fabulous Bernina Express, the most enchanting Swiss Alpine ride of all, and the spectacular railway from Belgrade to Bar through the mountains of Montenegro . The latter is one of the most scenic train rides you’ve probably never heard of, with a bargain fare of just €21. So here they are, the 10 best train journeys in Europe, extracted from Lonely Planet's Amazing Train Journeys .

1. Settle to Carlisle, England

Route: Settle to Carlisle Best bit? Marveling at the Ribblehead Viaduct, one of the great views of northern England , preferably as a steam train thunders over. Distance:  113km (73 miles) Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes

England’s Settle-to-Carlisle line has long been synonymous with the fight to preserve beautiful and historic stretches of railway. But this is no heritage line. Proudly part of the British rail network and served by regular mainline trains, the railway enjoys a double life as a frequent host of steam specials and, even rarer, steam-hauled mainline services.

Whether you have the whiff of steam in your nostrils or the hard-working growl of diesel-hauled regular trains in your ears, the views from the carriages are pretty much unmatched on the English railway network.

Passengers can feast their eyes on mile after mile of magnificent Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines scenery, interrupted only by stations so sweet you would expect to find them pictured on a box of biscuits.

2. Le Petit Train Jaune, France

Route: Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol Best bit? Holding your breath as you cross the gravity-defying Pont Gisclard. Distance:  63km (39 miles) Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Since 1910, the dinky, sunflower-yellow carriages of the Ligne de Cerdagne have been rattling and clattering their way through the rolling forests and saw-toothed mountains of the Pyrenees , and they have secured a special place in the hearts of many French travelers.

Affectionately known as the Canary, or Le Petit Train Jaune (Little Yellow Train), this mountain railway is frequently cited as the most scenic in France , but it’s definitely not a luxury service – it’s a rollercoaster ride on which you will feel the wind in your hair and the chill of the mountain breeze as you ratchet your way up to the highest train station in France. On y va!

3. Belgrade-to-Bar Railway, Serbia and Montenegro

Route: Belgrade to Bar Best bit? Levitating atop the 499m-long (1637ft), 198m-tall (650ft) Mala Rijeka Viaduct, one of the planet’s highest railway bridges, before the train glides over the Balkans’ largest lake, Skadar. Distance: 476km (296 miles) Duration: 12 hours

Dramatic is the operative word for this route, which rumbles over an unsullied, mountainous landscape from Serbia 's capital, Belgrade , to Montenegro ’s Adriatic Coast . During the 12-hour journey, the train disappears into the Dinaric Alps, charges through canyons, teeters on stilted bridges spanning river gorges and skims atop an ancient, tectonic lake.

Like the region it serves, the railway, which chugs across the heart of the Western Balkans , eludes most tourists’ maps. The reward for treasure-hunting travelers, who are informed (or lucky) enough to know where to dig: an embarrassment of authentic culture and pristine geographic riches at every bend.

4. The Bernina Express, Switzerland

Route: Chur to Tirano Best bit? Marveling at the astonishingly turquoise Lago Bianco from the route’s highest station, Ospizio Bernina (2253m/7392ft). Distance: 156km (96 miles) Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

We can wax lyrical about the glacier-capped mountains, waterfall-draped ravines, jewel-colored lakes and endless spruce forests glimpsed through panoramic windows on Switzerland ’s Bernina Express – but, trust us, seeing is believing.

Rolling from Chur in Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy in around four hours, this narrow-gauge train often tops polls of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. It's certainly one of the most scenic train journeys in Switzerland.

Beyond the phenomenal Alpine landscape, the railway itself is a masterpiece of early 20th-century engineering, taking 55 tunnels and 196 bridges in its stride. The line is on the UNESCO World Heritage List – and with good reason.

5. The Heart of Wales Line, Wales and England

Route: Swansea to Shrewsbury Best bit? Disembarking at lonely Sugar Loaf Station for a walk or picnic around the iconic nearby knoll of the same name. Distance: 194km (121 miles) Duration: 4 hours

This is Swansea to Shrewsbury the slow and, frankly, surreal way. This one-carriage train traverses track through Wales and England that might easily have been consigned to a museum or an out-of-print book, but that has somehow defied time and logic to survive as a passenger route.

Expect a spectrum of scenery, alternating from the sand-edged estuaries of South Wales, via bucolic farming towns and tracts of forest and hill country you probably never knew existed, through to one of England’s prettiest medieval cities. This four-hour, 34-station zigzag passes almost no major sights or countryside villages, but a very high concentration of spectacularly zany ones.

6. Munich to Venice on the Brenner Railway, Germany, Austria and Italy

Route: Munich to Venice Best bit? Stretching your legs at 1371m (4498ft) Brenner Pass, the highest point on the trip. Distance:  563km (350 miles) Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

The Brenner Railway is attractive for two key reasons: mountains and wine. There may be more technically astonishing high-altitude trains, but this was the first to cross the Alps, in the 1860s.

On a surprisingly speedy day trip, you pass through three countries – Germany , Austria and Italy – and descend from the snow line to sea level. You’re rarely far from highways, but the vineyard views are still stunning. Bonus: great European cities with historic architecture – Munich and Venice – are at either end.

7. The Kyle of Lochalsh Line, Scotland

Route: Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Best bit? Passing under the gentle grassy slopes of Fionn Bheinn – a munro rising high over Achnasheen. Distance:  135km (84 miles) Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Scotland has an abundance of windswept railways – the West Highland Line and the Far North Line to Thurso among them. Though comparatively unsung, perhaps the loneliest of all is the Kyle of Lochalsh Line – with trains rumbling doggedly from Inverness through desolate glens and past snowy munros, connecting the cold shores of the North Sea to the furious whitewater of the Atlantic.

It is a railway line full of poetry and beloved by aficionados – but it’s also a useful way for independent travelers to access remote nooks of the Highlands, and make a journey to the Isle of Skye.

8. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia

Route: Nova Gorica to Jesenice Best bit? Catching a glimpse of picture-perfect Lake Bled’s church, castle and bright-blue water. Distance: 89km (55 miles) Duration: 2 hours

Here is a near-perfect railway adventure that most people have never heard of. Then again, you could be forgiven for missing it. The Bohinj Railway, after all, connects two places whose significance can be lost to modern travelers. Europe’s shifting borders and politics may have rather marooned the Nova Gorica–Jesenice line, but that only adds to the appeal.

An unassuming regional train rattling out of a faded-grandeur halt on the Italy– Slovenia border doesn’t even hint at what’s to come. The journey is a spectacular tour of Slovenia’s upland highlights, climbing through mountain towns and villages along the Soča River, passing through superb Alpine scenery close to Lake Bohinj , and past world-famous Lake Bled , offering photo opportunities galore.

9. The Centovalli Express, Switzerland and Italy

Route: Domodossola to Locarno Best bit? Taking in the Isorno viaduct, the site of Switzerland’s first bungee jump. Distance:  52km (32 miles) Duration: 2 hours

Often eclipsed by Switzerland’s more famous rail rides, this two-hour trundle from Locarno on the palm-rimmed shores of Lake Maggiore to Domodossola over the Italian border in Piedmont is something of an unsung beauty.

Brush up your Italiano to swoon in sync with fellow passengers as the dinky train clatters across 83 bridges and burrows its way through 34 tunnels. The views make for spirit-lifting stuff: waterfalls shooting past cliffside views, hillside vineyards, gracefully arched viaducts, slate-roofed hamlets, glacier-carved ravines and mile after mile of chestnut and beech forests, all set against the puckered backdrop of mountains that are snow-capped in winter.

10. Bergensbanen, Norway

Route: Oslo to Bergen Best bit? Gazing over the soul-stirring landscape of Hardangervidda between Geilo and Finse. Distance: 496km (308 miles) Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

This astonishing train is one of the wonders of 19th-century railway building, and yet outside Norway hardly anyone knows about it. In just over six hours and some 490km (300 miles), it covers the spectrum of Norway ’s natural splendor: climbing canyons, crossing rivers, burrowing through mountainsides, swooping past fjords and traversing barren icescapes. All aboard for the Oslo to Bergen trainline, Bergensbanen: a mainline into Norwegian nature.

This article was first published Aug 20, 2019 and updated Jan 16, 2024.

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Top 10 LONGEST train journeys in the WORLD

These train journeys hold records as the top ten longest in the world. Read on to learn more about these mammoth treks across the land.

In this article, we invite you to join us on an extraordinary exploration of the planet’s top ten longest train journeys. These remarkable odysseys span continents, cross borders, and reveal the breathtaking beauty of diverse terrains.

From luxurious expeditions to rustic adventures, these train journeys offer a unique lens through which to view our world.

The World Bucket List’s top tips for booking the world’s longest train journeys:

• These journeys often require a lot of planning. Secure your tickets early, as they can sell out quickly.
• Research the best time to travel based on weather and scenery. Some routes are more picturesque during specific seasons.
• Decide between standard and luxury class. Luxurious options offer more comfort but often come at a much higher cost.
• Bring plenty of entertainment for the journey, like books, music, or movies, to pass the time during long stretches.
• Consider travel insurance for unexpected events or delays.
• Check visa requirements for countries you’re passing through or entering.

10. Blue Train: Pretoria to Cape Town (South Africa) –  a luxury train journey

The Blue Train is celebrated as one of the world’s most luxurious and extensive train journeys. It transports travellers on a two-night adventure across South Africa.

Passengers are pampered with plush accommodations, exquisite fine dining experiences, butler service, and even Cuban cigars.

The train’s golden-tinted picture windows offer passengers breathtaking views of the diverse African subcontinent, showcasing picturesque farmlands, lush forests, and verdant vineyards.

This journey traverses 1,600 km (994 miles), takes two days, three hours, 40 minutes, and costs 10,120 South African Rand ($548.38).

9. Eastern and Oriental Express: Bangkok to Singapore –  one of the world’s longest train routes

Embark on a three-night odyssey aboard the Belmond Eastern and Oriental Express, a journey renowned for its opulence. Travelling from Bangkok to  Singapore , this train offers an enchanting blend of ancient wonders and modern cosmopolitan cities.

Richly adorned accommodations beckon solo travellers and wanderers seeking adventure. Passengers can experience afternoon tea while basking in lush jungle landscapes and quaint villages.

This journey traverses a distance of 2,019 km (1,254 miles), takes two days, 16 hours, 40 minutes, and costs up to $3,121 (£1,560) per person.

8. The Ghan: Darwin to Adelaide (Australia) –  an unforgettable journey

The Ghan, a legendary train journey, provides a gateway to the best of  Australia ‘s tropical north and south while lavishing passengers with regional-inspired menus and fine wines.

The itinerary includes an exploration of historic legacies and unique environments, with key stops at Alice Springs and Katherine. These pristine wilderness destinations offer an opportunity to become enchanted by Australia’s remarkable beauty.

The journey covers a distance of 2,979 km (1851 miles), takes two days and six hours and costs $1,919.

7. Paris-Moscow Express: Paris to Moscow –  reasonable train tickets

The Paris-Moscow Express embarks on the longest trans-European train route, journeying from the heart of Paris through  Germany , Poland, and Belarus, concluding in Moscow.

A unique aspect of this journey is the train’s transition at Brest, where its wheelsets are changed to accommodate the shift from standard European track gauge to Russian gauge.

While sipping hot coffee or tea, passengers can gaze out at the enchanting beauty of the ever-changing Trans-European landscapes on one of the longest train journeys in Europe , featuring endless panoramas and awe-inspiring views.

The journey covers a distance of 3,483 km (2163 miles), takes one day, 14 hours, 47 minutes and costs between €313 and €1145.

RELATED READ : Top 3 best European interrailing routes: explore Europe by train .

6. California Zephyr: San Francisco to Chicago (USA) – experience the beauty of the Utah Desert

The California Zephyr is a captivating North American train journey, offering travellers the opportunity to traverse the scenic landscapes from San Francisco to Chicago.

The journey takes passengers through captivating locales like Reno and Sacramento, eventually leading to Denver and the vast plains of Nebraska.

Along the route, passengers can witness the snow-capped Sierra Nevada and traverse through the heart of the Rockies. The train journey also unveils the vivid hues of the Utah Desert, providing a splendid way to experience the true majesty of America .

It covers a distance of 3,924 km (2,438 miles), takes two days, three hours, 40 minutes, and costs between $134 and $235.

5. Vivek Express: Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari (India) –  covering a huge distance 

The Vivek Express takes passengers on a mesmerizing journey spanning more than 4,200 km, making it  India ‘s longest train journey.

The route stretches across seven Indian states and offers an array of accommodations, including AC coaches, sleeper coaches, unreserved coaches, and catering facilities.

The journey begins in Dibrugarh in the northeastern region of India and concludes in Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of the country, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge.

Along the way, passengers have the opportunity to experience the hidden beauty of India in daylight and observe the country’s rich cultural diversity.

This journey covers a distance of 4,219 km (2,621 miles), takes three days, 12 hours, and five minutes and costs between 2810 Indian Rupees and 730 Indian Rupees ($22.76 and $8.77).

4. Indian Pacific: Sydney to Perth (Australia) –  a remarkable voyage

The Indian Pacific takes passengers on a mesmerizing transcontinental journey, traversing the vast expanse from Sydney to Perth.

The journey includes traversing the awe-inspiring Blue Mountains, the arid regions of New South Wales, and the unique desert landscape of Broken Hill. An hour-long tour in Broken Hill offers a chance to explore the Living Desert Sculptures and the Pro Hart gallery.

This journey covers a distance of 4,352 km (2,704 miles), takes five days and six hours, and costs $1,819.

3. Shanghai to Lhasa (China) –  the longest train journey in China

Also known as Z164, the Shanghai to Lhasa train journey ranks not only as the longest in China but also as one of the world’s most extended train trips.

Spanning across eight provinces, the Shanghai-Lhasa train passes through mountainous terrains, offering breathtaking scenic beauty. The train’s itinerary features one of the most scenic train journeys globally, starting from the lower plains and ascending to higher plateaus.

Passengers can enjoy captivating views of the Qinghai Lake, Tanggula Mountains, and Nagchu Grasslands during the voyage.

It covers a distance of 4,373 km (2,717 miles), takes three days and six hours, and costs between 1,310.5 Chinese Yuan and 402.5 Chinese Yuan ($178.70 and $55.22).

2. The Canadian: Toronto to Vancouver (Canada) –  magnificent views

The Canadian is a trans-continental train journey celebrated as one of the world’s most incredible travel experiences. This epic journey spans four nights, taking passengers from  Toronto  to  Vancouver .

The train journey unfolds the stunning beauty of  Canada , featuring diverse landscapes encompassing endless prairies, the magnificent Rockies, and the tranquil West Coast.

Whether sipping fine wines or savouring the world’s finest coffees, passengers can gaze out at enchanting views, from endless blue skies to golden fields of canola and serene coastlines along the Vancouver shoreline.

This journey covers a distance of 4,446 km (2,762 miles), takes three days and 12 hours, and costs between $4,655 PP and $444.

1. Trans-Siberian: Moscow to Vladivostok (Russia) –  the longest train journey in the world

The  Trans-Siberian  is celebrated as the longest passenger train journey globally. This extraordinary journey serves as an exceptional way to explore the vastness of the world’s largest country, Russia. 

Passengers are treated to an ever-changing tableau of landscapes that unfold across Russia, China, and Mongolia, revealing the endless beauty of Siberia.

The epic adventure includes crossing 16 major rivers, 497 bridges, 87 major cities, 876 stations, three countries, and two continents. Passengers cross an impressive eight time zones, effectively travelling backwards in time while progressing from east to west.

This mammoth journey covers a distance of 10,214 km (6,343 miles), takes seven days, 20 hours, and 25 minutes, and costs between $805 and $1,600.

Your questions answered about the longest train journeys in the world

Which is the longest train journey route in the world?    

The longest train journey route in the world is the Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow to Vladivostok. 

What is the longest distance travelled by train?    

The longest distance travelled by train on a single journey is approximately 10,214 kilometres (6,343 miles) on the Trans-Siberian Railway. 

What is the longest train journey in the US?

The longest train journey in the United States is the California Zephyr, which runs from Emeryville (San Francisco) to Chicago.

Katie Morris is the Editor of The World Bucket List. She has a degree in English and French which has given her the opportunity to teach English across the world. Having worked in Thailand for over two years, Katie has a keen interest in the unbelievable travel opportunities Asia has to offer. Katie currently lives in her hometown of Belfast and loves discovering all the new and exciting things to see and do all over Ireland. She has written and edited articles for a diverse range of sites, from travel around Ireland and the rest of the world to satire and news sites.

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Longest Train Journeys In The World

The longest train journeys in the world are very long! These journeys can take a number of days and cover thousands of miles.

So, here are the journeys that take the longest in Europe, Asia , Australia, and the US.

• This article was written to educate about Train Travel and was made by Save A Train, The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

1: Trans-Siberian Express is the longest train journey

Distance: 5,722 miles

Duration: 6 days +

The longest rail journey in the world starts in Moscow and finishes in Vladivostok. First of all, it takes over 6 days to complete. Passengers on this European journey go through multiple time zones. Landscapes on this journey include the Ural Mountains and  Lake Baikal . Trains for this journey depart every 48 hours.

2: Eastern & Oriental Express

Distance: 1,200 miles

Duration: 3+ days

This journey travels through Southeast Asia from Bangkok to Singapore. The train stops at River Kwai and  Kuala Kangsar . The duration of the journey is either 3 or 4 days. Additionally, journeys usually take places on weekends . Furthermore, the accommodation is private and nicely decorated. Because the accommodation is compact it is best suited for solo travelers.

Brussels to Lille Trains

Antwerp to Lille Trains

Paris to Lille Trains

Lyon to Lille Trains

3: The Canadian longest train

Distance: 2,700 miles

Duration: 3 days

First of all, there is no WIFI on this transcontinental journey. So, be prepared to spend time looking at the scenery. Because the mountains , forests , and other Canadian landscape you will see is breathtaking. The journey starts in Vancouver and ends in Toronto. Enjoy the comfortable sleeper cars, whilst you get glimpses of moose, deer, and even bears.

4: California Zephyr longest train

Distance: 2,348 miles

Duration: 51 hours

This journey is most noteworthy as it is the longest in the US. The journey covers the pioneers, the Rockies, and canyons. The key stops on this journey are Denver, Salt Lake City, Reno, and Sacramento.

5: Indian Pacific: Sydney to Perth (Australia)

Distance: 2,704 miles

Duration: 65 hours

This longest train journey features the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. Firstly, Passengers get to experience the width of Australia . Additionally, the scenery includes waterfalls, forests, and blue mountains. Because of its length, there are many key stops on this route . The stops include  Broken Hill , Adelaide, Barossa Valley, Kalgoorlie, Cook, and Rawlinna. Train Tickets for this journey are expensive with prices starting at over $600.

6. Vivek Express: Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari (India)

Distance: 2,633 miles

Duration: 82 hours

Similarly to the Indian Pacific, this train is the longest train journey in India. Because it travels the entire length of India and has an average speed of 32 KM per hour. In contrast to other long train journeys tickets for this train start at $10.

7:  Paris -Moscow longest train Express

Distance: 1,998 miles

Duration: 48 hours

While this train is the longest trans-European  route it only takes 2 days to complete. The train leaves from the French capital and arrives at the Russian capital. Because this journey travels through Belarus you will need a Belarus visa to travel. Additionally, you need a visa to enter Russia .

Lyon to Marseilles Trains

Paris to Marseilles Trains

Nice to Marseilles Trains

Bordeaux to Marseilles Trains

Book your longest train journey with Save a Train

Booking a long train journey should not take a long time. That is why at Save a Train we have a quick ticket purchasing process .

Login to our website now and take 3 minutes to find the Cheapest Train Ticket for your journey. Tickets can be purchased using credit cards and real-time banking payments and many more options on Save A Train website.

Do you want to embed our blog post onto your site, then click here: https://iframely.com/embed/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saveatrain.com%2Fblog%2Flongest-train-journeys-world%2F%3Flang%3Den – (Scroll down to see the Embed Code)

• If you want to be kind to your users, you can guide them directly into our search pages. In this link, you will find our most popular train routes – https://www.saveatrain.com/routes_sitemap.xml . Inside you have our links for English landing pages, but we also have https://www.saveatrain.com/ja_routes_sitemap.xml , and you can change the /ja to /ru or /tr and more languages.

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I'm a Luxury Train Travel Expert — and These Are the 5 European Journeys I Always Recommend

Why your next trip to Europe should be on a luxury train, according to one A-List advisor.

Golden Eagle Danube Express

La dolce vita orient express, venice simplon-orient-express, other popular trains.

• The Cost of Luxury Train Travel

Courtesy of Belmond

Traveling by train is one of the best ways to cover a lot of ground in a single journey. Not only does train travel provide a sense of ease and reduce the stress of planning, but it also adds an element of whimsy that can’t be replicated. Plus, it’s like being a member of an elite club; fellow passengers come from all over the world and friendships can be forged easily. 

For your next European adventure, sip Champagne, savor some caviar, and let someone else do the driving with these luxury train journeys.

Relax as the Golden Eagle Danube Express chugs through the Swiss Alps trimmed in snow, or continues on from Paris to Istanbul (the latter officially launches in 2025). This train is the ultimate in easy living. With its casual dress code and unique itineraries, the Golden Eagle is a perennial favorite. And despite its tiny kitchens, the Golden Eagle prides itself on its dining options. The food will always reflect the flavors of the countries you travel through, too. 

Italy’s new La Dolce Vita Orient Express is scheduled to leave Roma Ostiense station for the first time in spring 2025, and bookings are now available. The company has already announced its incredible new executive chef: German-born Heinz Beck, from the only three-starred Michelin restaurant in Rome, La Pergola. The train will pay tribute to “La Dolce Vita” in the 1960s, and elegance is key. It’s evident in the 31 cabins and suites, all with cozy bedding, chocolate wood accents, and massive picture windows.

Another favorite is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) , complete with restored vintage cars. Especially popular is VSOE’s classic six-day, five-night Paris-to-Istanbul journey, offered in both directions twice a year. The vintage train retraces its famed route inaugurated more than a century ago by Orient Express creator Georges Nagelmackers.

If you really want over-the-top luxury, opt for the Grand Suite. A recent client of The Society of International Railway Travelers told us they loved the Vienna Grand Suite, which as a double bed, a private dining table, gorgeous tilework in the bathroom, heated floors, and walls with inlaid marquetry. Best of all, the young butler served never-ending Champagne and caviar upon request.

Consider Spain’s 28-passenger Gran Lujo and 64-passenger Al Andalus Express. Their bar cars are the perfect place to chat over drinks, or meet fellow guests for a meal in the dining car. A recent client called Al Andalus a “gorgeous train with a superb staff.”

The Cost of Luxury Train Travel 

It’s worth noting luxury train journeys come at a hefty price, but our clients believe it’s worth it. Recently, two nurses from Durham, North Carolina, came to our company with the goal of traveling overnight on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Venice. They'd been saving for years to make their dream come true, and decided to go for it. Upon return, they shared that they loved every minute. 

Eleanor Hardy is a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List, and as president of The Society of International Railway Travelers, she specializes in luxury rail travel. You can create an itinerary that fits your needs with Hardy by contacting her at [email protected] .

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The Longest Train Lines In The World, Ranked By Length

The world's first public railway was the Stockton to Darlington line in England, which opened in 1825. It was just eight miles long when it opened to transport both passengers and freight. Developed at the height of the Industrial Revolution, the railway went on to become a crucial worldwide mode of transportation, not only revolutionizing industry but also travel and trade. 

Many classic locomotives from that period survive today , but as technology has advanced, railways have expanded across continents, connecting cities and countries. They played a vital role in economic growth, facilitating trade, and shaping urban development. This led to a vast global network of railway lines that were transporting heavy goods, fuel, and travelers far and wide.

However, the rise of automobiles and airplanes in the 20th century meant passenger numbers declined and rail lines were abandoned. Efforts were made to modernize rail infrastructure through the introduction of faster  trains. Today, bullet trains in Japan and China are setting world speed records  while transporting passengers across considerable distances in times that rival, and in some cases even exceed air travel after you factor in airport procedures. There's even talk of hydrogen trains becoming the green future of rail travel. 

In contrast, other trains have become luxurious tourist attractions and have managed to stay in operation thanks to the dollars that travelers are willing to spend to traverse such iconic and expansive routes. However, the network of rail lines has become so complex that it can be difficult to know where one track ends and another begins. So, after some lengthy deliberation and research, here are the world's longest rail lines.

10. Adelaide to Darwin, 1,851 miles (2,979 km)

The Ghan is a tourist passenger train that traverses the second-longest railway line in Australia. It operates between the southern city of Adelaide and its northern counterpart Darwin, which are a considerable 1,851 miles of track apart. The Ghan is an abbreviated form of The Afghan, which is a nod to the contributions of the Afghan camel drivers whose explorations of the Australian interior later facilitated railway development. 

It's an extremely long train, with its 24 carriages and two NR class diesel-electric locomotives adding up to almost a half mile. In fact, it's so long that the boarding process takes place over two platforms. The train rumbles up and down the country at an average speed of 53 mph, and the whole journey takes around 54 hours. Scheduled stops take place along the way to take in the sights of the country's Red Center. 

However, as reported by The Guardian in 2009, one of these stops resulted in an American tourist having to cling to the exterior of the train for two hours as it rolled through the freezing desert. He had returned to the train as it was pulling away from the station and frantically clambered aboard in the hope that passengers would let him in when he banged on the window of the Platinum-Class dining car. However, they ignored his calls for help for over two hours until a crew member finally realized and stopped the train. The then 19-year-old Chad Vance narrowly escaped hypothermia or a fatal fall.

9. New Orleans to Los Angeles, 1,995 miles (3,212 km)

The line between New Orleans and Los Angeles consists of an impressive 1,995 miles of track. The Sunset Limited, a long-distance passenger train once operated by Southern Pacific Railroad and now run by Amtrak, has plied this route since 1894. It is scheduled three times weekly in either direction and is the oldest continuously operating named train in North America.

Two GE P42DC diesel locomotives pull the cars along the track with 4,200 hp of force at a top speed of 79 mph. Journey time takes around 48 hours, and the train passes through five states, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, with a total of 21 stops. The train employs Superliner Rail Cars, which have two levels. Seating is on the upper level for fine views, and there's also an observation car where passengers can take in the wetland, swamp, and desert landscapes.

However, with such a long time of operation, the Sunset Limited has no doubt been involved in collisions. The most infamous of which occurred in 1993 when a towboat collided with the Bayou Canot Railroad Bridge and displaced a girder. The Sunset Limited attempted to pass over moments later and was derailed . This tragically led to the deaths of 47 passengers, with many more seriously injured.ddd

8. Chicago to Emeryville, 2,438 miles (3,924 km)

The California Zephyr has been in operation since 1949. It initially operated from Chicago to Oakland but now traverses the 2,438 mile route from Chicago to Emeryville. It is one of the USA's most iconic trains and was rescheduled by Amtrak in 1983 after discontinuation in '69 when air travel poached many of rail travel's passengers.

Two GE Genesis/Siemens ALC-42 locomotives pull the cars along this line at an average speed of 55mph  with a top speed of 79mph. It passes through much of America's most stunning scenery that passengers can view from the bi-level Sightseer-Lounge car with its panoramic windows and comfortable seats. Over the course of two days and three nights, travelers can marvel at the route's undoubted highlights — the stunning mountain vistas of the Rockies and Sierra Nevada. Amtrak specifically chose a schedule that allowed the train to pass by the line's most breathtaking views during daylight hours. 

However, the train's route also incorporates historically significant sites, such as the Donner Pass in California. This was the scene of the grim Donner Party winter incident of 1846, where a group of lost pioneers reportedly resorted to cannibalism in order to survive. The train also traverses under the Rockies through the 6.2 mile Moffat Tunnel in Colorado at the line's highest point of 9,270 feet.

7. Sydney to Perth, 2,704 miles (4,352 km)

In 1969, the Australian government and state rail authorities completed an uninterrupted rail link from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean. The Indian Pacific passenger train made the country's first transcontinental journey from Sydney to Perth in early 1970. It came after more than 50 years of railway construction, and a crowd of over 10,000 citizens came out to welcome the train on its inaugural arrival in Perth. The 2,704 mile line takes three full days to traverse and claims the unique distinction of featuring the world's longest section of straight track. It runs for 478km without even a slight curve between Ooldea in South Australia and Loongana in the west.

Two diesel/electric locomotives pull an average of 35 cars along the continent-traversing track at an average speed of 53 mph with a top speed of 71 mph. The lead locomotive boasts a GE 7FDL16 powerplant that produces up to 4,020 hp to drag the cars through a variety of landscapes from the Blue Mountains outside Sydney to the vast, unearthly stretches of the Nullarbor Plain.

The coast-to-coast journey takes place twice a week in either direction and is primarily a ride for tourists. Passengers can enjoy a variety of cabin classes and even have opportunities to step off the train to explore some remote areas. The train even took part in the passing of the Olympic Flame prior to the Sydney 2000 games when it carried the torch across the Nullarbor Plain.

6. Shanghai to Lhasa, 2717 miles (4,374km)

The Z164 is one of China's Z-series trains and operates on the Shanghai to Lhasa route. These trains are not the high-speed bullets the country is renowned for, as even the longest HSR line in China is too short to make this list. 

However, the Z164 covers an incredible 2,717 miles from the futuristic city of Shanghai to the historic sites of Lhasa in Tibet. However, these trains are not known for their luxury and are not aimed specifically at tourists. Passengers can choose from a variety of classes, from a comfortable soft-sleeper bed in a compartment you share with three others to a not-recommended hard-seat option. The journey takes precisely 44 hours and 33 minutes — Chinese trains are renowned for their punctuality – and passengers spend two nights sleeping on the train.

However, getting a good night's rest may be a problem for some as the rail line gains over 16,600 feet in elevation once it is up on the Tibetan Plateau. In fact, once you are past Xining, you are officially on the highest railway line in the world. Many people suffer from mild altitude sickness symptoms. However, the Shanghai-Lhasa Train is sealed and pressurized, with both automatic and manual oxygen supplies to help manage symptoms. It is all worth it because you do pass through some incredible landscapes of snowy mountains and frigid grasslands and even go through the world's highest railway tunnel, the Fenghuoshan.

5. Chicago to Los Angeles, 2,728-mile (4,390 km)

The Texas Eagle is another long-distance Amtrak passenger train that makes this list. It operates daily between Chicago and San Antonio, but three times per week it joins the Sunset Limited to continue on to Los Angeles. This makes it the longest train route in the United States at 2,728 miles. The whole journey takes over 65 hours, with three full sleeps on the train. There are 43 stations on the route in total, and the train features two-level Superliner cars and an observation deck where passengers can admire the picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains and the lush greenery of Arkansas.

Originally, the Texas Eagle ran between St. Louis and various cities in Texas when it was part of the Missouri Pacific Railroad (MoPac) network. The train made its debut way back in 1948 and was a member of a team of Eagles that plied the country with St. Louis as its hub. By 1971, Amtrak had taken over operations, and the train was discontinued. However, in 1981, the Texas Eagle was reborn and it was in this year it joined the Sunset Limited in San Antonio to continue its long journey all the way to California without passengers needing a change of train.

4. Toronto to Vancouver, 2,775 miles (4,466 km)

The Toronto to Vancouver route is the longest rail line in North America and is famously plied by the luxury transcontinental passenger train The Canadian. The line, long called the Canadian Pacific Railway, was completed in 1885 and linked the east and west of the country by rail for the first time. With dangerous working and substandard living conditions, hundreds of laborers from China who were imported to work on the railway perished in accidents or from poor health. However, many of the thousands who lived to see the railroad completed were able to form the foundations of Canada's sizeable Chinese community.

At 2,775 miles in length, the construction was clearly no easy task. Even today, it remains one of the longest in the world, and the Canadian passenger train is the ideal way for tourists and locals to get an idea of the country's railway history while taking in some of its most stunning sites. The Canadian passes through endless wonders, such as the Rocky Mountains, with breathtaking views of forests, lakes, plains, and rugged peaks. The entire journey requires four full sleeps on the train, and takes a whopping 86 hours to complete the journey.

3. Moscow to Beijing (via Harbin), 5,582 miles (8,986 km)

The Trans-Manchurian Railway spans almost the entire country of Russia before crossing the border of China at Zabaikalsk. From there, the track ventures southeast to the frozen city of Harbin before switching southwest to Beijing for a total of 5,623 miles. This route is one of two from Moscow to Beijing. The Trans-Mongolian Railway connects the same two cities but does so via Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This line is 4,735 miles (7,622 km) in length. However, those wishing to go the extra mile (or the additional 888, to be precise) can do so while cutting out the need for a Mongolian visa.

The Vostok train is the one to take if you want to get all the way from capital city to capital city without changing trains. It departs Moscow's Yaroslavsky station around midnight twice a week and arrives in Beijing some 146 hours and seven time zones later. Tourists can use this line to take in the sights of Russia and China — or Mongolia, if they decide to switch trains. They can jump off at cities like Irkutsk to marvel at Lake Baikal, the world's largest freshwater lake. At Harbin, they can witness the world's most impressive ice and snow festival and stare in bewilderment at vast ice palaces, pandas, and Buddhas, all lit up in a kaleidoscope of color at night.

2. Moscow to Vladivostok, 5,771 miles (9,289 km)

The line that spans the entire terrain of Russia is known as the Trans-Siberian Railway or the Great Siberian Route. The Trans-Siberian Express is the train that rides this 5,771-mile (9,289-km) track, which makes it the longest passenger train ride in the world. The Rossiya departs Moscow's Yaroslavsky station 35 minutes after midnight and sets on its long journey across two continents and eight time zones with around 100 stops in various cities. It terminates in Vladivostok some 174 hours (or seven days) later and crosses some of the country's bleakest, most frozen landscapes on top of evergreen forests, rugged peaks, and raging rivers.

Work on the railway began in 1891 with the purpose of expanding Russia's influence into East Asia and toppling British trade dominance. The line initially bypassed Siberia due to the harsh conditions of the region. Instead, it made inroads into Manchuria, much to the dismay of the Chinese. In fact, it alarmed the Japanese so much that it contributed to tensions that sparked the 1904-05 Russo-Japanese War. 

Following the conflict, the Russians found a way to complete the line within its own borders. It was finished in 1916 and played significant roles in several historical events. Among these is the Russian Civil War, where anti-communist forces (backed by Canadian reinforcements) used the line to push westwards toward Moscow. The Nazis briefly also used this railway to transport goods between Germany and Japan, while many Jewish people used the route to escape persecution and set sail for the United States at the end of the line. It's even possible that Vladimir Putin himself has traveled this line in his infamous Ghost Train .

1. Yiwu to Madrid, 8,110 miles (13,052 km)

Yiwu has the odd nickname of The World's Capital of Small Commodities and is a major hub of trade between China and the rest of the world. So much so that the city has become an integral part of the Chinese Communist Party's Belt and Road Initiative. This is a government strategy that aims to better link the country with Africa and Europe through land and sea routes with the purpose of boosting trade and economic growth.

In 2014, the Yiwu to Madrid railway track completed its inaugural journey. However, it's no passenger train that traverses this track. You won't find any first or second-class cabins. There's no dining cart or air conditioning, and if you did somehow find yourself onboard this train, you'd have to sit on your luggage. This is a freight train that passes through Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Germany, and France before finally arriving in Madrid some 8,110 miles (13,052 km) and 21 days later. It is one of several Sino-Euro freight railways, but the Yiwu to Madrid line is easily the longest.

The trains transport a diverse range of goods, from laptops to food, more quickly and more cheaply than ship or flight can, and it looks very much to be a permanent fixture of trade between East and West. 

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Big Big Train share new clip of The Connection Plan

Big Big Train A Flare On The Lens vinyl and Blu-ray release is out now!

Big Big Train 's new live album and Blu-ray,  A Flare On The Lens , is out today through InsideOutMusic, and the band have shared a new live clip of The Connection Plan .

The new live release was recorded at the band's show at London's Cadogan Hall during last year's tour throughout August and September, during which the band performed 17 shows over 21 days across nine countries in the UK and Europe. The album features the band’s full show at Cadogan Hall from the second of their two nights there last year and also includes seven songs which were played only on the first night. 

“We’re delighted to unveil A Flare On The Lens, which captures our two shows last September at Cadogan Hall perfectly in my view," says signer Alberto Bravin. "It was the end of a pretty arduous and intense tour. But we gelled better and better every single night and there was amazing energy in the hall for both our London performances.”   

"Before last year, the longest consecutive run of shows that Big Big Train had ever performed was six," adds drummer Nick D'Virgilio. "By undertaking the 17 shows last August and September, we really bonded closer than ever before, both musically and personally, and that comes across with this release. And now we get to do it all again from next week!"

Having recently appeared at this year's Cropredy festival, Big Big Train head out o na new tour through the UK and Europe, which concludes with another headline date at  Cadogan Hall on October 5. You can see the full list of dates and ticket details below.

Get A Flare On The Lens .

Big Big Train UK and European Tour 2024

Sep 17: UK Swindon Wyvern Theatre Sep 18: UK Newport The Riverfront Sep 19: UK Whitley Bay Playhouse Theatre Sep 21: UK Edinburgh Queens Hall, Edinburgh Sep 22: UK Newark Palace Theatre, Sep 24: UK Milton Keynes Stables Theatre SOLD OUT Sep 25: UK ManchesterThe Stoller Hall SOLD OUT Sep 27: GER Weinheim Stadthalle Sep 28: NED Zoetermeer Boerderij Sep 29: NED Zoetermeer Boerderij Oct 1: NOR Oslo Cosmopolite Oct 2: DEN Copenhagen Viften Oct 5: UK London Cadogan Hall

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Writer and broadcaster Jerry Ewing is the Editor of Prog Magazine which he founded for Future Publishing in 2009. He grew up in Sydney and began his writing career in London for Metal Forces magazine in 1989. He has since written for Metal Hammer, Maxim, Vox, Stuff and Bizarre magazines, among others. He created and edited Classic Rock Magazine for Dennis Publishing in 1998 and is the author of a variety of books on both music and sport, including Wonderous Stories; A Journey Through The Landscape Of Progressive Rock.

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