Your journey begins in the afternoon at Gare de l'Est in Paris.
Upon arrival, a private chauffeur welcomes you at your hotel and transfers you to the station for boarding.

Welcome and Settling In

On the platform, the gleaming blue and gold carriages of the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express await.
As you step aboard, your personal steward greets you warmly and escorts you to your private cabin, an elegant retreat adorned with polished wood marquetry and luxurious fabrics, evoking the golden age of train travel.

Departure and First Gourmet Dining Experience

As the train departs from the French capital, settle in and admire the scenic countryside unfolding outside your window.
Shortly after departure, a multi-course gourmet dinner is served in one of the opulent restaurant cars, each meticulously restored to reflect the grandeur of the 1920s.
The menu, curated by renowned chefs, highlights seasonal ingredients paired with an exquisite selection of fine wines, handpicked by the train’s sommelier to enhance every dish.

Evening at the Bar Car and Relaxation

After dinner, extend the evening at Bar Car ‘3674’, where the soothing melodies of the onboard pianist set the perfect ambiance.
Enjoy a signature cocktail or a fine vintage while engaging in conversation with fellow travelers.

When you're ready to retire, your steward will have transformed your cabin into a cozy sleeping space.
Lay back and let the gentle motion of the train lull you into a restful night’s sleep as the journey continues eastward through Europe.

Wake up to the gentle rhythm of the train as it glides through the picturesque landscapes of Central Europe.
From the comfort of your private cabin, admire the rolling green hills and majestic mountains passing by your window.
Your personal steward serves a continental breakfast, featuring freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit, and a selection of tea or coffee—a perfect start to your day.

A Morning of Relaxation and Exploration

After breakfast, take some time to explore the different carriages of the train.
Visit the exclusive onboard boutique, offering refined souvenirs and elegant gifts.
Or head to Bar Car ‘3674’, where you can enjoy a hot beverage while listening to the live piano melodies that set the perfect ambiance.

A Gourmet Three-Course Lunch Onboard

As midday approaches, indulge in a three-course gourmet lunch in one of the opulent restaurant cars.
The talented onboard chefs craft a menu showcasing seasonal ingredients, expertly paired with an exquisite selection of fine wines, carefully chosen by the train’s sommelier.

Arrival in Budapest and Danube River Cruise

In the afternoon, the train arrives in Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube.
Upon disembarkation, you will be welcomed by local guides who will escort you on a scenic Danube River cruise.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the city's iconic bridges, grand architecture, and stunning waterfront panoramas.

Dinner and Overnight Stay in Budapest

After the river cruise, you will be transferred to a luxurious hotel, carefully selected for your comfort.
In the evening, a private dinner awaits at an elegant restaurant, where you can savor Hungarian culinary specialties, accompanied by live music for an enchanting atmosphere.

After a luxurious breakfast at your hotel, the morning begins with a guided visit to the Hungarian Parliament, one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks.
This stunning neo-Gothic masterpiece, inspired by London’s Palace of Westminster, boasts grand halls, intricate frescoes, and an impressive dome, offering insight into Hungary’s rich history and politics.

Reboarding the Train and Lunch Onboard

In the late morning, you return to the elegant Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where your personal steward greets you warmly.
Settle into one of the lavish restaurant cars, where a gourmet multi-course lunch is served, carefully crafted using seasonal ingredients.
As you dine, watch the picturesque Hungarian countryside pass by, dotted with charming villages and vast rolling plains.

Afternoon Relaxation Aboard

The afternoon is yours to relax and unwind.
Enjoy the comfort of your private cabin, read, or simply gaze out at the stunning landscapes unfolding before you.
For a more social experience, visit Bar Car ‘3674’, where the soothing melodies of the onboard pianist create an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere.
Indulge in a signature cocktail or a refined tea while engaging in conversations with fellow travelers, all captivated by the romance of this legendary journey.

Elegant Dinner and Evening Onboard

As night falls, prepare for a truly exceptional evening.
The dress code is formal, adding an extra touch of glamour and elegance to this exclusive experience.

Begin your night with a pre-dinner aperitif at the Bar Car, before making your way to one of the beautifully restored restaurant cars for a gourmet multi-course dinner.
The talented onboard chefs curate a menu that highlights the finest seasonal ingredients, expertly paired with an exquisite selection of wines, handpicked by the train’s sommelier.

After dinner, extend the night at Bar Car ‘3674’, enjoy a final cocktail, or simply unwind as the pianist plays timeless melodies.
As the train glides through the vast landscapes of Hungary towards Romania, let yourself be lulled to sleep in the comfort of your cabin, now transformed into a cozy sleeping retreat.

Wake up as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express glides through the majestic Carpathian Mountains, en route to the town of Sinaia, Romania.
Your personal steward serves a continental breakfast in the comfort of your cabin, allowing you to savor the stunning landscapes.

Upon arrival in Sinaia, a short coach ride takes you to Peleș Castle, one of Romania’s most spectacular architectural gems.
Built in the late 19th century as the summer residence of King Carol I, this fairytale-like palace was visited by the very first passengers of the Orient Express in October 1883, upon the king’s personal invitation.

During your guided tour, admire the lavish interiors, an exquisite blend of neo-Renaissance and Baroque influences, and stroll through the manicured gardens, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Brunch Onboard and Journey to Bucharest

After this royal visit, you reboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to continue your journey towards Bucharest, Romania’s vibrant capital.
A refined brunch is served in one of the elegant restaurant cars, as you enjoy the passing views of rolling green hills and charming rural villages.

The afternoon offers time for relaxation onboard.
Retreat to your private cabin to read, journal, or simply watch the ever-changing scenery unfold outside your window.
Alternatively, join fellow travelers at Bar Car ‘3674’ for a signature cocktail while listening to the melodies of the onboard pianist.

Arrival in Bucharest and Elegant Private Dinner

By late afternoon, the train pulls into Bucharest, a city once known as the "Little Paris" for its Belle Époque architecture and grand boulevards.
Local guides welcome you and escort you to a luxury hotel, carefully selected for your comfort.

In the evening, get ready for an exclusive private dinner in an elegant, historic venue in Bucharest.
Enjoy a gourmet meal, enhanced by a live music performance, creating a refined yet enchanting atmosphere.
The dress code is smart casual, ensuring a sophisticated but relaxed experience.

Wake up to the gentle rhythm of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express as it continues its journey southward.
Your personal steward serves a continental breakfast in the comfort of your private cabin, allowing you to enjoy the ever-changing landscapes outside your window.

During the morning, the train crosses the majestic Danube River, entering Bulgaria.
The scenery transforms into fertile plains and rolling hills, offering a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing morning onboard.
Take the opportunity to explore the train, unwind in one of the elegant lounges, or enjoy the refined ambiance of Bar Car ‘3674’.

Gourmet Lunch En Route to the Black Sea

At lunchtime, head to one of the beautifully restored restaurant cars, where a multi-course gourmet lunch awaits.
Inspired by regional flavors and prepared with seasonal ingredients, each dish is perfectly complemented by an exquisite selection of wines.
As you dine, watch the golden fields and charming villages of the Bulgarian countryside pass by.

Afternoon: Stop in Varna on the Black Sea Coast

In the afternoon, the train makes a special stop in Varna, a beautiful seaside resort on the shores of the Black Sea.
Here, you are invited to an exclusive aperitif at a private venue, offering breathtaking views of the sea.
Take a moment to relax by the water, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy a convivial gathering with fellow travelers in an elegant and serene setting.

Farewell Evening Onboard: A Grand Dinner and Entertainment

Back onboard, prepare for a final unforgettable evening on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Formal attire is required, adding an extra touch of glamour and sophistication to this special night.

Begin the evening with a pre-dinner aperitif at Bar Car ‘3674’, where the atmosphere is enhanced by live piano music.
Then, step into one of the opulent restaurant cars for a multi-course gourmet dinner, celebrating the flavors of the regions traveled.

After dinner, make the most of your last night onboard.
Savor a final cocktail at the Bar Car, enjoy the live music, or retreat to your cabin, now transformed into a luxurious sleeping space, as the train glides through the Thracian Plain, moving ever closer to its final destination.

Wake up to the gentle motion of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express as it approaches the Turkish border.
Your personal steward serves a continental breakfast in the comfort of your private cabin, as the train stops at Kapıkule, the border checkpoint where customs formalities take place.

Take a moment to gaze at the changing landscapes, marking the final stage of this legendary journey.

Lunch with Turkish Flavors

As the train glides through the Thracian Plain, head to one of the beautifully restored restaurant cars for a lunch inspired by Turkish cuisine.
The onboard chefs have carefully curated a menu that celebrates the authentic flavors of the region, providing a perfect culinary transition into your final destination.

Afternoon: Approaching Istanbul

As Istanbul draws closer, take time to reflect on your extraordinary journey across seven countries and cultures.
Relax in the privacy of your cabin, enjoy the elegant surroundings of the train’s lounges, or join fellow travelers at Bar Car ‘3674’ for a final toast.

This is the perfect moment to savor the luxury, refinement, and cultural richness that have defined this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Arrival in Istanbul

By mid-afternoon, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express makes its grand entrance into Istanbul, marking the end of your legendary voyage.
Upon arrival, small-group transfers are arranged to take you to your city-center hotel.
For passengers traveling in Grand Suites, a private transfer is included, ensuring an exclusive arrival experience.

Please note that this itinerary may be subject to changes depending on travel conditions and train schedules.