Quick Facts
About Orient Express
The Orient Express is perhaps the most famous train in history, a name synonymous with luxury, intrigue, and the romance of rail travel. Originally launched in 1883 by the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, the Orient Express connected Paris to Constantinople (Istanbul) through the heart of Europe, establishing the concept of luxury long-distance rail travel.
The train inspired Agatha Christie's classic novel "Murder on the Orient Express" and has featured in countless films and books. Today, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), operated by Belmond, carries this legacy forward. Running between London and Venice (via Paris and the Alps), the VSOE features lovingly restored 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages with polished wood, crystal glassware, and white-glove service.
Passengers dress in formal evening wear for the multi-course French dinner served in the three dining cars. Cabin classes include Twin Cabins, Cabin Suites, and the Grand Suites — some of the most luxurious accommodations on rails. A one-way journey from London to Venice starts at approximately £2,500 per person, making it one of the world's ultimate bucket-list travel experiences.
In 2025, Accor Hotels announced a new Orient Express, the "La Dolce Vita" service through Italy, promising to bring new life to this iconic brand.
বাংলায় পড়ুন
ওরিয়েন্ট এক্সপ্রেস ইতিহাসের সবচেয়ে বিখ্যাত ট্রেন। ১৮৮৩ সালে চালু হয়ে প্যারিস থেকে ইস্তানবুল পর্যন্ত যাত্রা করত। আজ ভেনিস সিমপ্লন-ওরিয়েন্ট-এক্সপ্রেস ১৯২০ এবং ৩০-এর দশকের আর্ট ডেকো ক্যারেজে বিলাসবহুল ভ্রমণের অভিজ্ঞতা প্রদান করে।
Highlights
- The most legendary train in world history — operating since 1883
- Inspired Agatha Christie's famous novel
- Restored 1920s-30s Art Deco carriages with white-glove service
- London to Venice via Paris and the Swiss Alps
- Formal dress code dining with multi-course French cuisine
- Grand Suites among the most luxurious rail accommodations ever
How to Book
Book through Belmond at belmond.com. Journeys are seasonal (March-November). Prices start from approximately £2,500 per person for a one-way London-Venice journey.
Visit Official Booking Site →Travel Tips
- Book 6-12 months in advance — the most popular dates sell out quickly
- Pack formal evening wear — dress code applies for dinner in the dining cars
- The London-Venice journey includes a cross-Channel segment by coach (not through the Channel Tunnel)
- Grand Suites include a private bathroom — standard cabins use shared facilities
- The Paris-Venice leg passes through the Swiss Alps — set your alarm for sunrise views
- Consider the shorter Paris-Venice one-night journey if the London departure is sold out
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Orient Express cost?
A one-way London-Venice journey starts at approximately £2,500 per person in a Twin Cabin. Cabin Suites cost from £4,000 and Grand Suites from £8,000+. Prices include meals, drinks, and accommodation.
Does the original Orient Express still run?
The original Paris-Istanbul route no longer operates as a continuous service. Today's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE) by Belmond runs between London and Venice using beautifully restored vintage carriages from the 1920s-30s.
Is the Orient Express worth the price?
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime luxury experience, absolutely. The restored Art Deco carriages, white-glove service, gourmet dining, and the romance of classic rail travel create an unforgettable experience that justifies the premium.
