Venice & Simplon Orient Express - from Istanbul to Paris

Begin your journey with three immersive nights in Istanbul, staying at the elegant Crowne Plaza Istanbul Old City, perfectly placed for exploring the city’s most iconic sights. From the bustling Grand Bazaar to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, you’ll be steps from the heart of historic Istanbul while enjoying the hotel’s modern comforts, refined décor and warm Turkish hospitality. Whether you’re wandering ancient streets, indulging in local cuisine or unwinding in the hotel’s spa, this stay offers the ideal blend of culture, relaxation and luxurious convenience before boarding the Venice Simplon‑Orient‑Express.

Feel the thrill of anticipation as you board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Istanbul. Your steward escorts you to your cabin, a cocoon of luxurious upholstery, polished marquetry and soft lighting. Where countless stories have unfolded, it's time to write your own mystery. Dress to the nines and anticipate a glittering evening ahead. Whet your appetite with an aperitif in Bar Car '3674' before making your way to one of the magnificent dining cars. Here, the imagination of celebrated chef Jean Imbert influences both the décor and the menu. Seasonal specialities, sourced from producers along the route, are accompanied by exceptional wines. After dinner, a lively ambience awaits back at the bar. Listen to the resident pianist play the baby grand as you sip sublime and inventive cocktails. As you retire for the first night in your comfortable cabin, the train crosses into Bulgaria.

Relax in your cabin as your steward serves a French breakfast. Melt-in-the-mouth pastries, fresh juice and aromatic coffee are the perfect way to begin the day as the train winds its way towards Romania. Soak up the scenery through the windows before enjoying a delicious lunch. Soon, you arrive in Bucharest and alight. Our local guides accompany you by coach to your hotel, allowing you to take in some of the city sights on the way. There's time to refresh before heading out to a typical Romanian evening with musical entertainment.
The next morning, after a walking tour in the old city, rejoin the train and relax over brunch in one of the elegant dining cars as you journey towards the mountain town of Sinaia. Board a coach for the short journey to Peles Castle, the Neo-Renaissance palace built by King Carol as his summer retreat. You're following in historic footsteps: the inaugural Orient Express passengers visited the castle at the King's personal invitation in October 1883. Return to the train in the late afternoon for a leisurely journey towards Hungary. A delectable dinner and captivating night on board await.

Arrive in majestic Budapest this morning and disembark for your overnight stay. After an orientation ride through the city, enjoy a panoramic cruise along the River Danube, soaking up the city's graceful architecture and timeless beauty. Enjoy a lunch of Hungarian specialities before embarking on a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, famously inspired by London's Houses of Parliament. Afterwards, you will be escorted to your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the capital at your leisure, with highlights including the imposing Buda Castle, renowned thermal baths and enchanting botanical gardens. In the evening, prepare for a dinner at a private venue.
The next morning, take a leisurely morning to explore the city at your own pace. Reboard the train and enjoy lunch as you glide through the picturesque Hungarian countryside. A final fabulous dinner, curated by our visionary chef, is served to celebrate your last night on board. Relax in Bar Car '3674' listening to music as you swap stories with new-found friends.

Linger over a French breakfast in your cabin as the train travels through Austria and France. Take the opportunity to browse our boutique for some last-minute mementos. Afterwards, proceed to one of the elegant restaurant cars for a sumptuous farewell lunch, accompanied by a delightful champagne tasting experience expertly guided by our attentive waiters. When the train pulls into Paris, disembark for a complimentary transfer to your city centre hotel.
After your train journey ends, enjoy 3 nights exploring the beauty of Paris from your base at Hotel Maison Colbert. Located in close proximity to Notre Dame and the Latin Quarter, you'll be well placed to explore the legendary romance and cuisine of this iconic city.