Best Luxury Rail Tours
Jul 22, 2020 · By Vacations By Rail
Tune in as we discuss the lovingly restored rail cars, their well-appointed private cabins, and some of the unforgettable experiences which highlight a luxury rail tour.
Read more2023 Tour code: BM-PBIE-23
About the tour
The elegance of the Golden Age is yours to behold once more as you join the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in traveling from Paris to Istanbul. This trip is one for the ages, highlighting the timeless luxury the train has been known for since it initially took to the tracks in 1883. The second coming of the journey brings just as much splendor and all the original destinations to life once more, introducing you to the best of Western and Central Europe and giving you a taste of the Middle East.
The memorable expedition begins in Paris, where travelers join the train for an overnight route to Budapest, Hungary. Get a taste of this cultural epicenter while taking a riverboat cruise on the Danube, enjoying a private dinner at the Museum of Fine Arts, and touring the Hungarian Parliament Building. As you rejoin the train, notice the changes in the landscape as you pass through Hungary and into Romania, pausing the journey to visit Peleș Castle before the train arrives in Bucharest. An exquisite dinner experience complemented by music offers a lovely introduction to Romania's capital city. The final days aboard the train whisk you through Bulgaria, offering a glimpse of the sparkling Black Sea, and Turkey in pursuit of Istanbul. A fantastic course linked by one of the world's most impressive luxury trains makes this journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express one you will remember for years to come.
This itinerary is also available from Istanbul to Paris, based on your travel preference.
Highlights
What’s included
Itinerary
A route rife with intrigue and brimming with the allures of Western and Central Europe, the fabled course of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express comes to life once more as you board the prestigious train at Paris Gare de l' Est this afternoon. A steward greets you as you step aboard, escorting you to your cabin. A world of polished marquetry, luxurious upholstery, soft lighting, and elegant decor unfurls as you make your way through the train. Each detail shows a commitment to artistry and hints at the luxury to come during your journey.
Enjoy afternoon tea and soak in the changing views as the train begins its trek. As the sun sets, dress in your finest and join the rest of the guests for a gourmet dinner. Begin with an aperitif in the Bar Car "3674," then transfer to one of the gorgeous dining cars to taste the chef's seasonal specialties. The menu is composed using artisan ingredients procured along the route and features thoughtful pairings of exceptional wines. The evening continues in the bar, where the resident pianist's tunes set the tone for a wonderful evening of stimulating conversation and outstanding cocktails as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express weaves through France and Germany. Overnight train.
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Reviews
5.0 / 5 · 1 review
Charles B, Roswell, GA
Submitted 25 Oct 2017
Everything was well planned and great attention was paid to the smallest of details. Vacations by Rail did an excellent job in communicating with us and took care of all the details.
Collected by Vacations By Rail
Join an exclusive list of travelers in traveling one of the most iconic routes in the world - a route so special it features just one departure each year - from Paris to Istanbul aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
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