Iconic Luxury Trains Revive Historic Routes to Istanbul

Luxury trains are once again traversing Europe, reigniting a bygone era of opulent rail travel. In 2025, the Paris-Istanbul tourist train operated by MAV and the famous Venice Simplon Orient Express have resumed their iconic routes, promising passengers a journey filled with historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and the cultural richness of Istanbul.

MAV’s Paris-Istanbul tourist train embarks on a scenic route from Paris, passing through Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, and Bulgaria before reaching Turkey. The train, operated by Hungarian national railway company MAV, welcomes passengers to a refined and nostalgic travel experience aboard vintage-style wagons. Arriving at Istanbul’s Sirkeci Station, travelers are greeted by the architectural wonders and historical charm of the city’s Old Town.

Simultaneously, the legendary Venice Simplon Orient Express, synonymous with luxury rail travel, is making its way back to Istanbul. This Belmond Train crosses France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria before arriving at Sirkeci Station, a historical terminus associated with the original Orient Express. With its fine dining, private cabins, and timeless elegance, the Venice Simplon Orient Express offers passengers a luxurious journey through multiple European borders.

The revival of these two iconic routes underscores Istanbul’s enduring allure as a cultural and historical hub. The journey itself becomes an integral part of the adventure, weaving through iconic cities, picturesque Alpine landscapes, and charming Balkan regions before culminating in Istanbul, where East meets West. Sirkeci Station serves as a symbolic endpoint, allowing passengers to seamlessly immerse themselves in Istanbul’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

The resurgence of these luxury train services reflects a broader renaissance in rail-based tourism. As an alternative to air travel, these trains cater to slow travel enthusiasts, history aficionados, and those seeking immersive cross-border experiences minus the hassles of airport queues. Moreover, the cooperation among European rail operators and the growing demand for sustainable travel options highlight a shift towards scenic and environmentally conscious travel choices.

With passengers eager to rediscover the golden age of rail travel, Istanbul is once again reclaiming its position as a premier destination on the world’s most romantic and adventurous train itineraries. As these luxurious trains make their way back to the city, they not only evoke nostalgia for a bygone era but also pave the way for a new chapter in rail-based tourism, where the journey itself is as enchanting as the destination.