A legendary journey: Travel from Budapest to the City of Light in one day on the Orient Express

The Venice Simplon-Orient Express, a name synonymous with luxury and nostalgia, offers travellers the chance to experience the romance of the Golden Age of Travel. One of its most iconic routes connects Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube,” to Paris, the “City of Light,” in a journey that blends opulence, history, and breathtaking scenery.

A step back in time

Boarding the Orient Express in Budapest is like stepping into a time machine. The train’s 17 original carriages, meticulously restored to their 1920s splendor, transport passengers to an era when travel was as much about the journey as the destination. According to the website of Luxury Train Tickets, each carriage is uniquely decorated, featuring polished wood, plush upholstery, and Art Deco details. The train boasts three elegant restaurant cars, a bar car with a resident pianist, and luxurious cabins that transform into cozy bedrooms by night.

Your journey on the Orient Express

The journey begins late morning in Budapest, where stewards welcome passengers aboard and escort them to their cabins. As the train departs the city’s historic Keleti station, guests are treated to a three-course lunch in one of the restaurant cars. The ever-changing views of Hungary’s countryside unfold through large windows as passengers relax and unwind. In the evening, dinner is a glamorous affair—a four-course meal prepared by world-class chefs using fresh ingredients sourced along the route.

The route: from Budapest to Paris

After a restful night in their cabins, passengers wake up to stunning views and a continental breakfast served by their personal steward. The train glides through Austria and Germany before arriving in Paris the following afternoon. Along the way, guests can enjoy fine dining, live piano music in the bar car, and impeccable service that ensures every need is met.

This route is part of what makes the Orient Express legendary. Budapest’s rich history as a cultural crossroads provides a fitting starting point for this journey. From its grand architecture to its vibrant café culture, the city sets the tone for an unforgettable experience that culminates in Paris—a city renowned for its elegance and charm.

A journey worth taking

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers more than just transportation; it provides an immersive experience into a bygone era of sophistication and luxury. For those seeking adventure with a touch of glamour, this journey from Budapest to Paris is an unparalleled opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.

This year, the unforgettable journey starts on 18 May: read more HERE.

• Related article from 2023: PHOTOS: Travel to Vienna on the Hungarian Orient Express