Istanbul to Paris: The Classic Journey by Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
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Embark on the ultimate westward odyssey. The Istanbul to Paris Classic Journey is a once-a-year expedition that retraces the fabled route of the original Orient Express, moving from the golden minarets of the Bosphorus to the elegant boulevards of the French capital. Over five magnificent nights, you will witness the landscape of Europe unfold in reverse, from the ancient Thracian plains to the rugged Balkan mountains and the rolling vineyards of France.
This is more than a rail journey; it is a meticulously preserved piece of history. As the train’s signature midnight-blue carriages depart Istanbul’s historic terminal, you enter a world of Art Deco glamour and silver-service hospitality. With overnight stays in the vibrant capitals of Bucharest and Budapest, and exclusive excursions to royal retreats like Peleș Castle, this journey offers a rare opportunity to experience the continent’s cultural treasures through the lens of a golden era. Onboard, the celebration never fades—from gala dinners curated by world-class chefs to the late-night melodies of the resident pianist in Bar Car ‘3674’.
Itinerary
DAY ONE: The Gateway to the Orient
The Thrill of Departure
Your journey begins in Istanbul, where the gleaming blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express await. After being escorted to your private cabin—a sanctuary of polished marquetry and soft lighting—prepare for a glittering evening. Enjoy an aperitif in Bar Car ‘3674’ as the train departs the city, heading toward the Bulgarian border.
A Gala Opening
Dinner is a magnificent affair in one of the restored dining cars, where seasonal specialities are paired with exceptional sommelier-selected wines. Afterward, listen to the resident pianist play the baby grand before retiring to your cabin, expertly prepared for your first night on the rails.
DAY TWO: Into the Balkans
Pastries and Peaks
Wake to a French breakfast of melt-in-the-mouth pastries and aromatic coffee, served in your cabin by your steward. Spend the morning soaking up the changing scenery as the train winds through Bulgaria and into Romania. Following a delicious three-course lunch, the train arrives in Bucharest.
A Romanian Welcome
Local guides will escort you to your luxury hotel, providing a glimpse of the city’s Belle Époque architecture along the way. The evening features a typical Romanian dinner with live musical entertainment at a private venue, celebrating your arrival in the “Paris of the East.”
DAY THREE: Fairytales and Parliament
Following Historic Footsteps
After a morning walking tour of Bucharest’s old city, rejoin the train for brunch as you travel toward the Carpathian Mountains. Alight at the mountain town of Sinaia for a visit to Peleș Castle. This Neo-Renaissance masterpiece was the summer retreat of King Carol I, who famously invited the very first Orient Express passengers here in 1883.
The Journey Resumes
Return to the train in the late afternoon for a leisurely journey toward Hungary. As the sun sets over the mountains, enjoy another delectable dinner on board, followed by a captivating night of cocktails and music in the Bar Car.
DAY FOUR: The Pearl of the Danube
Riverside Splendour
Arrive in majestic Budapest this morning and disembark for your overnight stay. Your introduction to the city begins with a panoramic cruise along the River Danube, offering unparalleled views of the city’s graceful architecture.
The Heart of Hungary
After a lunch of Hungarian specialities, enjoy a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, inspired by London’s Houses of Parliament. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the thermal baths or botanical gardens before a private dinner at an exclusive city venue.
DAY FIVE: Across the Plains
The Picturesque Countryside
Take a leisurely morning to explore Budapest at your own pace before re-boarding the train. Lunch is served as you glide through the picturesque Hungarian countryside toward Austria.
A Final Celebration
Your last night on board is marked by a fabulous farewell dinner, curated by our visionary chefs to celebrate the completion of your transcontinental journey. Spend the evening in Bar Car ‘3674’, swapping stories with new-found friends as the train speeds toward France.
DAY SIX: The Grand Arrival
A French Farewell
Linger over a final French breakfast in your cabin as the train travels through the heart of France. Take a final stroll to the onboard boutique for a last-minute memento of your voyage before proceeding to the restaurant car for a sumptuous farewell lunch.
Champagne and Cities
Your final meal includes a delightful champagne tasting experience, the perfect finale to your expedition. All too soon, the train pulls into Paris, where a complimentary transfer awaits to take you to your city-centre hotel.
Explore the complete guide to cabins, dining, and the storied history of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
About this trip
The Legendary Westward Expedition
The definitive transcontinental rail experience. A rare, 5-night journey following the historic 1883 route from East to West, featuring three nights of onboard luxury and two nights in Europe’s most prestigious hotels.
Route: Istanbul - Bucharest - Budapest - Paris
Departure Months
Twice a year – Contact us for live availability
What's included
THE LEGENDARY RAIL EXPERIENCE
Three nights aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Spend three nights in your private vintage cabin, a sanctuary of polished wood and Art Deco marquetry. Your experience includes 24-hour Dedicated Steward Service to attend to your every request. From serving your morning coffee to expertly transforming your cabin into a cosy bedroom each evening.
LUXURY HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Two nights in world-class hotels. To ensure total comfort during your transcontinental journey, your package includes one night in a premier luxury hotel in Budapest and one night in Bucharest.
Sumptuous Four-Course Dinners
Each night you are aboard the train, feast on our seasonal table d’hôte menu, which includes artisanal biscuits, a curated cheeseboard, and local chutneys.
Delicious Three-Course Lunches
While traveling, enjoy gourmet lunches served in our uniquely themed dining cars as the European landscape passes by your window.
Continental Breakfasts
Served in the privacy of your cabin each morning for ultimate comfort and a slow start to your day.
Authentic Local Dining
Beyond the train, enjoy a traditional lunch and dinner of Hungarian specialties in Budapest, and a private dinner with musical entertainment in Bucharest.
Champagne Tasting
A farewell tasting experience served with your final lunch as you approach Paris.
Signature Continental Excursions
Enjoy a curated programme of private guided tours, including the Gothic splendour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, a romantic cocktail reception on the Danube, and a visit to the fairytale Peleș Castle in the Carpathian Mountains. Your journey also features a guided discovery of Bucharest and an exclusive Black Sea reception at a private estate in Varna.
SEAMLESS LOGISTICS
All transfers between the train, your hotels, and your excursion sites are included. Upon arrival in Istanbul, a complimentary shared transfer to your city-center hotel ensures a smooth conclusion to your journey.
Sightseeing highlights
The Bazaars of Istanbul: Begin your journey in the vibrant heart of the Ottoman Empire, where East meets West.
The “Paris of the East”: Explore Bucharest, Romania’s capital, famous for its wide, tree-lined boulevards and Belle Époque elegance.
Royal Heritage at Sinaia: Step back in time at Peleș Castle, a Neo-Renaissance jewel nestled in the Romanian mountains.
The Danube Panorama: Experience Budapest from the water with a private cruise, viewing the illuminated Parliament and the city’s iconic bridges.
Gothic Masterpieces: Tour the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most magnificent examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Europe.
The Ancient Thracian Plain: Gaze out from the comfort of the train as you traverse the vast, historic plains of Bulgaria and Turkey, tracing the same path that has connected East and West for over a century.
The French Countryside: The final leg of your journey offers the quintessential views of the French landscape as you approach the “City of Light.”
Art Deco Dining Carriages: Each meal is a journey in itself, hosted in one of three meticulously restored 1920s cars. Admire the floral marquetry of Étoile du Nord, the exotic black lacquer of L’Oriental, or the world-famous René Lalique glass panels found in the Côte d’Azur carriage.
Gastronomy by Jean Imbert: Experience a new era of culinary excellence. Celebrated French chef Jean Imbert has reimagined the onboard menus, blending classical precision with seasonal ingredients sourced from local artisans along the route.
The Bressenden difference
HERITAGE & HISTORY – Step into a Living Time Capsule.
Every carriage on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has a story, from transporting royalty across Europe to surviving the shifts of the 20th century. Bressenden Travel provides guests with detailed insights into the train’s historic “consist,” helping travelers discover the secret past and unique craftsmanship of the very cabin they occupy.
LOCAL SPECIALIST – Maître d’ & Head Chef Jean Imbert.
While on board, you aren’t just a passenger; you are a guest of world-renowned culinary experts. Learn about the provenance of your meal during an informal “Kitchen Talk,” where the staff explain how they source fresh lobsters from Brittany or seasonal salt-marsh lamb to be prepared in a kitchen no larger than a walk-in wardrobe.
ICONIC AMBIENCE – The Social Heart of the Journey.
Evening onboard the Orient Express begin in the legendary Bar Car ‘3674,’ where the “Golden Age” of travel remains a daily reality. The resident pianist performs jazz standards on a baby grand piano, while the clink of crystal and the hum of conversation create a sophisticated atmosphere that has captivated travellers for over a century.
AUTHENTIC DINING – A Gastronomic Gala on Rails.
Passengers experience three distinct dining environments, each with its own personality. From the Lalique glass-adorned Côte d’Azur to the exotic black-lacquered L’Oriental. Meals are multi-course events paired with exceptional wines, ranging from elegant silver-service breakfasts to the famous midnight brunch.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE – Seamless Planning & Protection.
Bressenden Travel manages the intricate details of the booking process, from cabin selection to advice on station transfers. Benefit from expert guidance, low deposit schemes, and the peace of mind that comes with booking a luxury journey through a protected travel partner.
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