The mention of the Orient Express often brings to mind the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a private five-star luxury train operated by Belmond. This meticulously restored train offers Belle Epoque charm with its mirror-finish mahogany, elegant silver service, and a pianist entertaining guests in the lounge car.
While the Venice to Venice route is a popular choice for travelers, a once-a-year five-night journey from Paris to Istanbul offers a unique experience. Solo travelers looking to embark on this grand adventure can expect to pay £35,000. However, with the resurgence of night trains in Europe, it’s now possible to travel from Paris to Istanbul with just two train changes in Vienna and Bucharest. Booking online gives travelers the option to reserve private sleeping compartments for the entire trip for less than $1,000.
Last July, I embarked on a trip from Paris to Istanbul, inspired by the myth of the Orient Express. The journey took me through picturesque landscapes and introduced me to fellow travelers sharing the same spirit of adventure.
The Nightjet to Vienna
The Austrian Railways Nightjet to Vienna set the tone for a leisurely 15-hour journey with stunning views of the French countryside. As we made our way to Vienna, I met fellow travelers immersed in the culture of overland travel in Europe.
This train, part of ÖBB’s effort to revive night trains in Europe, offered a glimpse into the legacy of the true Orient Express, which continued its journey long after its heyday.
Onboard, I enjoyed the comfort of a deluxe sleeper compartment with ensuite facilities, embracing the slow travel experience and savoring every moment of the journey.
The Dacia Express to Bucharest
In Vienna, I embraced the Viennese layover, exploring the city before boarding the Dacia Express to Bucharest. This 18-hour journey provided a unique insight into Transylvania’s stunning landscapes.
Despite the lack of ensuite bathrooms on the train, the camaraderie among travelers and the scenic views made the journey memorable. A stop in Sighisoara added to the adventure, showcasing Romania’s rich history and culture.
The Bosporus Express to Istanbul
My journey took an unexpected turn as I boarded the Romanian train to Istanbul due to a last-minute change. Despite initial concerns, the camaraderie among passengers and the scenic route made the experience special.
As we made our way to Istanbul through scenic landscapes and mountain passes, the sense of adventure and camaraderie intensified. The arrival in Istanbul marked the culmination of a six-day journey filled with unforgettable memories.
If You Go
Plan your European train adventure using Mark Smith’s invaluable website, The Man in Seat 61. Booking top-end private sleeping compartments on Nightjet and Dacia offers a comfortable journey with stunning views.
While the classic Orient Express line to Sirkeci remains closed, exploring Istanbul with an Istanbulkart and visiting historic landmarks like the Pera Palace Hotel adds to the experience.
