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The Orient Express is much more than just a train: it's a legend of rail travel. Crossing Europe to link Paris with Venice and Istanbul, this mythical train, synonymous with luxury and adventure, has captivated travelers the world over since its first departure in 1883. In this article, find out all you need to know about the Orient Express and its history, from routes and timetables to fares and practical information.
The Orient Express is an iconic luxury train created in 1883 by the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL), founded by the Belgian industrialist Georges Nagelmackers.
This revolutionary train linked Paris to Istanbul The new "Sentier de l'art de voyage" concept, which takes in major European cities such as Munich, Vienna, Sofia, Bucharest and Venice, is redefining the art of travel by combining comfort and refinement.
Over the decades, the Orient Express became synonymous with luxury and adventure, inspiring numerous works of literature and film. However, after the Second World War, the train gradually lost its prestige in the face of the rise of aviation and geopolitical changes.
The original service to Istanbul ended in 1977. After this last trip, some of its cars were auctioned off and bought by collectors to create tourist trains inspired by the Orient Express, such as the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express launched in 1982.
In 2017, SNCF handed over the "Orient Express" brand to the Accor group, which has set about revitalizing this travel legend. Accor plans to launch new luxury trains, with departures from Paris to Istanbul as early as 2025, offering a travel experience combining historical heritage and modern comfort.
The Orient Express continues to symbolize elegance and the art of travel, perpetuating a centuries-old tradition while adapting to the aspirations of travelers in search of unique experiences.
The Venice Simplon Orient Express in station
To take things a step further, we created a deciphering complete video on the history of this mythical train, from its spectacular development across the continent to the upheavals of the 20th century, between espionage, famous crimes and golden legends! 👇
The historic route of the Orient Express passed through several countries, including the United States. France the Hungary the Romania and the Turkey. Although the original service has been suspended, modern reissues of the trip exist, offering passengers a similar experience.
Today, a distinction must be made between two versions of the Orient Express, of which only one currently departs from Paris:
Paris-Venice route with VSOE
Delivery of the future Orient Express by Accor
Historic route of the Orient Express to Istanbul
Leave Paris before dinner for an unforgettable night in Venice! Travel in style through European landscapes before arriving in the City of Waters late the next afternoon. Get ready to live out your passions and write your own story aboard this legend in motion.
Trains are subject to the constraints of national and international rail networks. These timetables are therefore indicative only. Please check your final itinerary for confirmed times.
Stewart from L'Orient Express departing Paris
Visit trip price on board the Orient Express is high, reflecting the luxury experience on offer. Here are some price indications:
These prices include your cabin, gourmet meals, shuttle service to the train, 24-hour room service and access to period-style dining cars. Discover detailed itineraries and timetables at Orient Express website and on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express of Belmond.
Current Orient Express dining car (2026)
Belmond teams will pick you up directly from your Paris accommodation and take you to the train station for check-in and departure. When you arrive in Venice, they will also transfer you from the station to your accommodation in the city.
Orient Express shuttle to your hotel
You'll never look too elegant aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express! For dinner, formal evening wear is required. Many travelers choose to wear tuxedos or their most glamorous outfits for this unique occasion. During the day, smart-casual attire is appropriate. At lunch, for example, a jacket and tie, or equivalent, are recommended. Please note that jeans are not accepted at any time on board.
Example of dress code on board the Orient Express
The Orient Express may be an unattainable dream in terms of budget, but there are many ways to make it happen. rail travel alternatives to reach Venice more cheaply. Visit route Paris - Venice is easily accessible via regional and international trains.
Our favourite route:
- Leaves Paris gare de l'Est at 3pm by TGV
- Change in Stuttgart for an OBB Nightjet train
- Arrive early morning in Venice
👉 This itinerary can be viewed directly here.
Venezia Santa Lucia station
Fondateur du calculateur d'itinéraires ferroviaire, Railee.com, je suis convaincu que nous pouvons voyager sans avion en Europe. Et après avoir traversé l'Europe en train de nuit de Paris à Istanbul jusqu'au Cercle Polaire, je vous partage tous mes bons plans pour optimiser vos voyages en train.
