Paris to Istanbul by BELMOND
Embark on this luxury train journey and explore an array of romantic cities aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, including Paris, Budapest, Bucharest and Istanbul.. Recreate the grandeur of the golden years of luxury traveling in Europe by E&O Express Train by Belmond. Savour stunning regional cuisine in the restaurant car. Or simply relax in your vintage cabin and watch the scenery unfold.
Day One – Depart the City of Love
Step aboard the gleaming blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at Paris Gare de l’Est Station. Settle into your cabin as the train departs for the first leg of your historic journey to Istanbul.
Day Two – A Fine Way To Pass The Day
Wake up to Continental breakfast, served in your cabin by your steward. Admire the changing views through your window as the train winds its way through Austria and into Hungary. Enjoy a delicious three-course lunch prior to your arrival in Budapest. There, our local guides will be waiting to escort you by coach to your hotel.
Day Three – Exploring Budapest
Discover some of the fascinating sights of historic Budapest with our guides before sitting down to a lunch of Hungarian specialties. Afterwards, enjoy a guided tour of the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building, which was inspired by London’s Houses of Parliament.
Day Four – A Fairytale Castle Awaits
Savour Continental breakfast in your cabin as the train glides into Romania. A delicious brunch is served in the dining cars as you approach the mountain town of Sinaia. Board a coach for the short journey to Peles Castle, the fairytale palace built by Romania’s King Carol as his summer retreat. The very first Orient Express passengers visited this beautiful residence in October 1883, at the King’s personal invitation. We recommend comfortable shoes and a sweater for your visit.
Day Five – Final Celebrations
Back on board, begin the final leg of your journey to Istanbul. Relax and enjoy the views as you travel south across the mighty River Danube and into Bulgaria. Make your way to one of the dining cars for lunch. During the afternoon, a stop is made at the delightful seaside resort of Varna on the Black Sea coast, where you alight for an aperitif on a private estate.
Day Six – Fond Farewell
Continental breakfast is served in your cabin as we travel onwards to Turkey. The train will stop at the border crossing point of Kapikule for customs formalities. Take the opportunity to stroll along to our onboard boutique to browse an exclusive range of elegant gifts and mementos. Today’s lunch in the dining cars introduces you to exquisite Turkish flavours.