Craving the ultimate luxury train adventure? The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), operated by Belmond, revives the legendary Orient Express with restored 1920s Art Deco carriages.
In 2026, iconic routes like Paris to Venice, the annual Paris to Istanbul, and new additions such as Paris to Portofino or the Amalfi Coast await. This isn’t just travel—it’s glamour, gourmet dining, and timeless elegance on rails.
This 2026 Orient Express journey guide details routes, cabins, prices, tips, and more. Ideal for searches like “Orient Express 2026 prices,” “Venice Simplon-Orient-Express routes,” or “Paris to Istanbul luxury train.” Note: The Italian La Dolce Vita Orient Express offers separate domestic luxury trips—see alternatives below.
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train exterior in classic blue and gold
Why Ride the Orient Express in 2026?
The VSOE embodies 1920s-1930s opulence with polished marquetry, crystal glasses, and white-glove service. In 2026, new routes expand options, including summer jaunts to Italy’s coasts. Highlights: Multi-course meals by chef Jean Imbert, piano bar cocktails, and scenic Alpine or Dolomite views.
The once-a-year Paris to Istanbul (or reverse) follows the original route through Europe. Eco-note: Rail travel cuts emissions vs. flying, with added romance.
Classic Orient Express route map from Paris to Istanbul
The Journey: Key Routes and 2026 Highlights
Journeys range from 1-night classics to 5-6 night epics. Departures mostly from Paris or London (via Eurostar link), arriving in Venice, Verona, or beyond. Trains run seasonally, March-December.
Popular 2026 Routes
| Route | Duration | Frequency | Key Stops | Highlights | Starting Price (per person, 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paris to Venice (Classic) | 1-2 nights | Multiple weekly | Innsbruck (optional) | Alps crossing, lagoon arrival | £3,800 / $5,100 (Historic Cabin) |
| Paris to Istanbul (Annual Epic) | 5-6 nights | Once/year (summer) | Budapest, Bucharest, Sofia | Original route revival, Black Sea views | £25,000+ (Cabin); £50,000+ (Grand Suite) |
| Paris to Portofino (New) | 2-3 nights | Select dates | Italian Riviera | Hotel extension at Splendido | £8,000+ (incl. hotel) |
| Paris to Amalfi Coast (New 2026) | Multi-night | From May 2026 | Southern Italy | Coastal glamour, inaugural runs | £8,600 / $11,479+ |
| London to Venice (via Paris) | 2 nights | Weekly | Channel crossing | Full UK start | £4,500+ |
Prices in GBP/USD approx.; based on twin sharing. Subject to change—check belmond.com.
Scenic highlight: Crossing Switzerland or the Balkans at dawn.
Onboard Experience: Cabins, Dining, and Luxury
Restored 1920s-1930s carriages feature no showers in standard cabins (steward-assisted sinks), but Grand Suites have en-suites. Dress code: Smart day, black-tie evenings.
Cabin Options
| Cabin Type | Description | Capacity | Perks | Approx. Price Upgrade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Cabin | Twin/sofa beds, Art Deco | 2 | Day sofa, upper berths optional | Base price |
| Suite | Larger with lounge | 2-3 | Marble bathroom (some) | +£3,000-£5,000 |
| Grand Suite | Lavish en-suite, champagne | 2 | Private dining, free-flow bar | £10,000+ per night |
All include steward service, meals, and stewarded transfers.
Dining and Amenities
Three restaurant cars serve lobster, caviar, and seasonal French-Italian cuisine. Bar car with live piano. No WiFi—digital detox encouraged!
Elegant dining car on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Luxurious Grand Suite interior cabin
Prices and Booking: 2026 Essentials
2026 prices in GBP, starting £3,800 for short trips to £50,000+ for Istanbul in Grand Suites. Includes all meals, drinks (except premium), stewardship.
Booking Tips
- Book Early: Via belmond.com or agents like luxurytraintickets.com—popular dates sell out fast.
- Deals: Occasional offers; combine with Belmond hotels.
- Inclusions: Meals, wine/beer, entertainment; extras like champagne.
- Total Cost: £5,000-£15,000 average for classic routes (per person).
Golden Rule: Pack formalwear—it’s part of the magic!
Is the Orient Express Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Verdict
Absolutely, for luxury seekers—unparalleled glamour and service make it a bucket-list icon. Pros: Exquisite food, historic ambiance, scenic romance. Cons: High cost, no modern amenities (limited power, no showers in base cabins), bumpy vintage ride.
In 2026, new routes add fresh appeal. Verdict: Splurge-worthy once-in-a-lifetime.
Alternatives: Other Orient Express Experiences
- La Dolce Vita Orient Express (Italy): Modern luxury train with Italian routes (Rome-Venice, Tuscany), from €2,500/night. Launching more in 2026. Book at orient-express.com/la-dolce-vita.
- Future Accor Orient Express: Restored original cars for Paris-Istanbul, planned post-2026.
- Other Luxury Trains: Belmond’s British Pullman or Nightjet sleepers for budget glamour.
Summary: Step Aboard the 2026 Orient Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in 2026 delivers pure luxury journey magic—from Paris to Venice classics to new coastal escapes. Expensive? Yes. Unforgettable? Absolutely. Book your cabin at belmond.com—the golden age of rail awaits! 🚂
