Venice Simplon Orient Express Istanbul: The 2026 Journey Across Europe
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The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express arrived in Istanbul on 30 September 2026 after a five-night journey from Paris through Budapest and Bucharest, marking one of the train’s two Istanbul departures this year.
The Venice Simplon Orient Express Istanbul journey reached Istanbul on 30 September 2026, completing a five-night itinerary that began in Paris on 25 September. The route crossed France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary and Romania before reaching Türkiye, with scheduled stops in Budapest and Bucharest.
The journey is structured as more than an overnight rail passage. Three nights are spent aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, while Budapest and Bucharest form part of the itinerary with hotel stays and guided visits. The programme also includes a Danube cruise and an excursion to Peleș Castle in Romania.
Accommodation ranges from the Historic Cabin to Suites and Grand Suites. Belmond’s current information also lists the L’Observatoire, a 31-square-metre suite for two, alongside double and twin suites and the smaller Historic Cabins.
On board, the focus remains the train itself: restored 1920s carriages, dedicated steward service and restaurant cars serving multi-course meals with wines. The journey is designed as a continuous European itinerary rather than simply transport between Paris and Istanbul.
The Venice Simplon Orient Express 2026 Istanbul programme ran twice from Paris: the 25 September departure arriving on 30 September, followed by the return journey from Istanbul on 2 October. Belmond currently lists 2026 Istanbul–Paris journeys, while its published 2027 programme continues the five-night route.
