In an age defined by a constant blur of digital haste, where time is a fleeting commodity more so than ever, Belmond offers a stark counterpoint: A World of Slow Luxury.
Within the gilded confines of this universe, time decelerates to a halcyon waltz. Imbued in a swirl of velvet, mahogany and brass, the carriages dating back to the 1920s whisper tales of grand adventures and cosmopolitan glamour. Plush carpets, deep in hues of burgundy and emerald, yield gently to the foot, promising comfort on the sole. The air is still, wafting with the faintest hint of fine tea & champagne, stages a tantalising prelude to the culinary delights that await from the dining car. Sunlight filters through layers of lace curtains, dancing on the polished wood panelling, casting intricate patterns that shift and sway with the rhythm of each moment.
The atmosphere, a quaint hush.
Welcome aboard the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express
Paris to Istanbul
The Orient Express, a titan of travel, once ferried royalty, luminaries, and intrepid explorers across the heart of Europe. Its carriages were platforms for clandestine meetings, passionate romances, and purred secrets. Today, the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express carries on this grand tradition, honouring the vision of its founder, Georges Nagelmackers. The Belgian entrepreneur dreamed of a luxurious rail journey linking Paris and Constaniople (now Istanbul), and this iconic train continues to fuel that dream, inviting modern glamour travellers to adventure in its timeless allure to this day.
Departing from the historic Gare de l’Est in Paris - the same station that bid farewell to the inaugural Orient Express journey bound for Istanbul in 1883 - the locomotive tirelessly chuffs to life, filling the air with a palpable sense of anticipation. The journey begins with a leisurely pace through the heart of France, snaking past scenic countrysides, charming villages and historic chateaus.
Panoramic panes from side-to-side invites a kaleidoscope of sights. Patchworks of verdant fields and ashen terrains doused in snow white and azure winter hues frame a picturesque glimpse of the world beyond with every passing moment on the track. Inside, the walls are adorned with marquetry, vanity mirrored surfaces reflect the soft glow of the carriage lamps, orchestrating a symphony that is the masterpiece of Art Deco design, harmonising ever so beautifully with the alternating landscape outside, where every carriage on the overnight train becoming a vantage point.
As the train glides away from the City of Lights, passengers are treated to a culinary exploration of France, with exquisite dishes showcasing the nation’s rich gastronomic heritage. And as the sun descents, the train crosses the border into Germany, and the landscape once again transforms. The Rhine River, a majestic waterway, accompanies passengers on their journey. The atmosphere recapitulates to one of quiet contemplation, the gentle sway on the tracks becoming a lullaby that melts away the excitement of the day into a promising night of undisturbed slumber.
Interlude in Budapest
Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, awaits with its enchanting blend of history and culture. The day starts off with a sumptuous French breakfast served in the dining car as the journey continues past Austria into Hungary, followed by a three-course lunch prior to arriving in Budapest. Passengers then disembark for a short transfer to the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest for a refreshing interlude, recharging in its world-class hospitality before heading to the River Danube for a cocktail reception and dinner.
On Day 3, the tour brings passengers across the vibrant tapestry of Budapest, including the Fisherman's Bastion, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge. As the day draws to a close, passengers return to the train, greeted by a cocktail service then dinner as the Venice-Simplon-Orient Express embarks on its next leg, traversing into Romania.
Into the Heart of Romania
Alighting at the mountain town of Sinaia, passengers hop on a short coach to Peles Castle, a palace nestled amidst the shroud of greenery. Built as a summer retreat for Romania’s King Carol, this architectural gem boasts ornate interiors, intricate carvings, and stunning stained glass windows. A visit to Peles Castle is a step back in time, befitting the theme of the Orient Express, presented as an opportunity to experience the opulence of Romania's royal history.
Returning to the train, the train winds towards Bucharest. The Romanian capital, a vibrant blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy, welcomes travellers with its warm hospitality. Guests are met by local guides who escort them to the InterContinental Athénée Palace Hotel.
The evening unfolds with a delightful dinner accompanied by live music at a private venue, offering a taste of Romanian culture and entertainment. As the night descends, the city's lights twinkle, creating a magical atmosphere that is uniquely Bucharest.
The Last Leg
With a fond farewell to Bucharest, the Orient Express takes on its final leg, ending the journey in the city of Istanbul. As the train passes the vast Romanian plains, the landscape begins to hint at the approaching Eastern horizon as it glides past Bulgaria.
The majestic Danube River becomes a constant companion in the travels across Bulgaria. As the train follows the river’s meandering course, passengers are treated to picturesque landscapes of vineyards and traditional villages. A highlight of the journey is a stop in the charming seaside resort of Varna, nestled on the Black Sea coast. Passengers disembark here for a refreshing aperitif on a private estate, taking in the gentle sea breeze under the warmth of the Bulgarian sun.
Returning to the train, the train resumes with renewed energy on the tracks, crossing the ancient Thracian Plain where the landscape becomes increasingly arid, hinting at the approaching Middle East. A final dinner is served, celebrating the culmination of this extraordinary excursion.
With each passing mile, the approaching sight of Istanbul grows. Lunch on this final day introduces exquisite Turkish flavours, further implying that the final destination is nigh. All too soon, the exquisite experience comes to an end, leaving behind nothing but an ever-lasting memory of a wonderful journey that is, the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express.
