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The Orient Express is much more than just a train: it’s a legend of rail travel. Traveling across Europe to connect Paris with Venice and Istanbul, this legendary train—synonymous with luxury and adventure—has captivated travelers from around the world since its first departure in 1883. In this article, discover everything you need to know about the Orient Express and its history, from its routes and schedules to prices and practical information.
How much does a ticket on the Orient Express from Paris cost? From €4,638 (Paris–Venice) to more than €20,000 (Paris–Istanbul) per person.
When does the Orient Express leave Paris? The Paris-Venice route operates 3 to 4 times a month; the Paris-Istanbul route, only once a year.
Is there a dress code? Yes: formal attire for dinner; jeans are never allowed.
Is there a cheaper alternative? Yes, a classic Paris-Venice trip starting at €200 by night train.
The Orient Express was launched in 1883 at the initiative of Belgian industrialist Georges Nagelmackers, initially connecting Paris to Constantinople (Istanbul). The historic service ceased operations in 1977, before Accor relaunched the brand in 2017.
👉 Read the full story of this legendary train, as told by historian Arthur Mettetal, in our article on the history of the Orient Express.
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The historic route of the Orient Express passed through several countries, including the France, the Hungary, the Romania and the Turkey. Although the original service has been suspended, modern re-enactments of the journey exist, offering passengers a similar experience.
Today, it is important to distinguish between two versions on the Orient Express, only one of which currently departs from Paris:
Route of the Paris-Venice trip on the VSOE
Accor Unveils the Future Orient Express
Historical Route of the Orient Express to Istanbul
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Leave Paris before dinner for an unforgettable night in Venice! Travel in style through the European countryside before arriving in the City of Waters in the late afternoon the next day. Get ready to pursue your passions and write your own story aboard this living legend.
The train is subject to the schedules of national and international rail networks. These times are therefore provided for informational purposes only. Please check your final itinerary for confirmed times.
Stewart on the Orient Express departing from Paris
The cost of a trip The cost of traveling on the Orient Express is high, reflecting the luxury experience it offers. Here are some sample fares:
These prices include your cabin, gourmet meals, a shuttle service to the train, 24-hour room service, and access to the dining cars, which are decorated in a vintage style. Discover the itinerary details and detailed schedules on the Orient Express website Accor and on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Belmond.
Dining car on the current Orient Express (2026)
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The Belmond team will pick you up directly from your Parisian accommodations and take you to the train station for check-in and departure. Upon your arrival in Venice, they will also arrange your transfer from the train station to your accommodations in the city.
An Orient Express speedboat serving as a shuttle to your hotel
You can never be too elegant aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express! For dinner, formal evening attire is required. Many travelers choose to wear a tuxedo or their most glamorous outfits for this unique occasion. During the day, smart casual attire is appropriate. For example, at lunch, a jacket and tie—or the equivalent—are recommended. Please note that jeans are not permitted on board at any time.
Example of the dress code on board the Orient Express
While the Orient Express may be an unattainable dream for most people on a budget, there are many train travel options to get to Venice on a budget. The Paris to Venice can be easily reached by regional and international trains.
Our favorite itinerary:
- Leave from Paris Gare de l'Est at 3:00 p.m. on the TGV
- Transfer in Stuttgart to an OBB Nightjet overnight train
- Arrives in Venice early in the morning
👉 This itinerary can be viewed directly in our Paris-Venice guide.
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.
