How to recreate the journey of the Orient Express: Train route from Paris to Istanbul (step by step)

Do you want to cross Europe by train in the style of the legendary Orient Express, but in an affordable and realistic way? In this article I'll tell you how I did it - step by step.

Travel Route: Paris to Istanbul by Train

Before you start reading, take a look at the map!
This was the route I took by train between Paris 🇫🇷 and Istanbul 🇹🇷, crossing 7 countrieswith incredible stops in cities such as Munich 🇩🇪, Vienna 🇦🇹, Budapest 🇭🇺, Bucharest 🇷🇴 and Sofia 🇧🇬.
A modern and accessible way to relive the spirit of the legendary Orient Express - at your own pace, in your own style.

The Story of the Orient Express

The Orient Express is much more than a train - it's a historical and cultural symbol of Europe. Inaugurated in 1883 by the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, this luxury rail service linked Paris to Constantinople (now Istanbul), at a time when travel was a privilege for the few and a real adventure. The route crossed several countries, including France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria, linking the West to the East in an elegant and unprecedented way.

On board, passengers enjoyed wood-paneled sleeping compartments, private bathrooms (a rarity at the time), and meals prepared by top chefs, served in exquisitely decorated dining cars. Among its famous passengers were diplomats, aristocrats, spies, writers and artists - which gave it an atmosphere of mystery and exclusivity that endures to this day.

During the World Wars, the service was interrupted, but returned with various adaptations. In the 1930s, for example, there were three different active routes under the name Orient Express:

• Original route (Paris - Istanbul)via Strasbourg, Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest and Varna;
• Simplon Orient Expressvia Lausanne, Milan, Venice, Belgrade and Sofia;
• Arlberg Orient Expressalternative route with branches through Switzerland and southern Germany.

Each of these variants had their periods of greatest popularity, depending on the geopolitics of Europe in different decades.

In more recent years, the route has been immortalized by luxury tourist trains such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which still operates between Paris and other European cities. However, the original line was officially discontinued in 2009.

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My Alternative Route on the Orient Express (starting in Lisbon - but you can start wherever you like!)

My journey recreates the spirit of the Orient Express, but with a practical and contemporary approach. Instead of following the original route, I opted for a combination of normal, affordable and comfortable trains, avoiding some classic stops such as Strasbourg or Varna, and adding destinations that particularly interested me, such as Munich and Sofia.

The journey began with a flight from Lisbon to Paris, the starting point of the rail adventure. This route passed through Paris, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest, Sofia and Istanbul - a route that, although different from the original version, maintained the essence of the European crossing between West and East. It was a freer, more economical and more authentic way to experience this historic journey.

And, of course, this is just one of the many possibilities: you can start your journey in another European city, choose a shorter or longer route, add other stops or adapt the dates to suit you. That's the beauty of traveling by train - the freedom to create your own itinerary. In the end, I flew back from Istanbul to Lisbon, closing the circle of this European journey.

I did the trip in 14 days, and I honestly think it would be difficult to do it in less time, starting the train journey in Paris and taking the route I did. And if you want to stop and see or visit each city, you can also increase the days in some cities. The great thing about this type of trip is that you can personalize it completely.

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The Orient Express at the Movies - and in CineViagens

Few rail routes have inspired cinema as much as this one. For example, films such as "Crime on the Orient Express" (based on the novel by Agatha Christie) have made the legendary train even more fascinating, fueling the mystery and romanticism associated with this European crossing. Over the course of a season of my CineViagensIn my first episode of the Cine Tendinha program on Sic Radical, I explored films shot along the route of the Orient Express. In each episode, I tried to show not only the emblematic places where the stories take place, but also their relevance as cinematic travel destinations.

How to Plan and Budget This Trip

One of the great advantages of taking this route with regular trains is that you can adjust it to your pace, interests and budget. Here are some references based on my personal experience:

1. Initial planning

Before you start planning your trip, it's essential to consider a few questions:

1. How many days do you have to make this trip and how long do you want it to take?
2. Which cities do you want to visit
3. How many days you plan to stay in each city
4. If you want to sleep a few nights on board night trains
5. If you want to go with the whole trip planned and programmed, or if you want to decide along the way how many days to stay in each city

2. Transportation

I used public transport whenever possible to get around the cities. It's a cheaper way to get around, and it also allows you to have a more authentic experience in each city. Get to know public transport and see how the locals move around the city in their daily lives.

Plane tickets

First you need to get to the starting point, in my case it was Paris, but it depends on where you want to start the journey. And at the end of the trip I returned from Istanbul. In your travel budget you need to include the outward and return flights.

Metro tickets

Depending on how many days you're staying in each city, and how much you'll be traveling, it may be worth buying different types of tickets, or even a pass or 1-day or multi-day tickets. Compare prices, and organize your days in the cities by zones and attractions you want to visit, so you can maximize the amount you spend on transport tickets.

Ubers and cabs

In some situations I used Uber or Taxi, for example, whenever I arrived in a city at night.

Train tickets

There is no single website where you can buy all the tickets, so the best strategy is to always look on the official website of the railroads in each country. In some cases you may only be able to buy tickets on the spot. For example, on the journey between Sofia and Istanbul I couldn't buy the ticket online and had to buy it at the train station in Sofia.

Prices vary depending on how far in advance you book, the type of seat (standard, couchette, bed) and the promotions available. Booking in advance generally offers cheaper fares.​

Extra tips on train tickets

You should be aware that if you don't buy your train tickets in advance, they may sell out on certain routes and at certain times (depending on the time of year, such as the summer period in Europe), which is particularly complicated if you have time constraints. And that can affect the rest of your trip, as well as any accommodation bookings you've already made.

Booking a seat on the trains 

On some routes, seat reservations are not included in the ticket price, and you have to buy them separately. Buying the ticket guarantees that you have a seat on the train, but not a booked seat. And it's not enough to look for an empty seat, because the reservation can be made from another station. If you don't reserve a seat, you'll have to look for a seat that isn't marked as reserved. I recommend buying the seat reservation when you buy the ticket, it's simpler and easier, although it's a bit more expensive.

TipYou can also use Interrail or EurailIf you're a traveler, passes start at 300€ (for 7 days of travel to be used over 1 month). Buying single tickets may or may not be cheaper, it always depends on the time of year, how far in advance you need to book and what promotions are available.

Note: If you don't know what Interrail or Eurail you can read this article, where I explain everything. (Coming soon)

3. Travel Insurance

You already know that unforeseen events can happen and traveling without insurance is not an option for me. I never travel without insurance - it's essential for any international trip.

That's why I recommend Heymondowhich I use on all my trips. You get 5% discount through my affiliate link.

4. Accommodation

The choice of hotels should be strategic. On the one hand, it's good to stay near train stations because it reduces the time needed to travel between stations and accommodation, but on the other hand, it depends on what you want to do and visit in each city. Depending on your plans for each day, staying in the city center may be the best option.

So the first thing to do before choosing your accommodation is to make a list of everything you want to see and do in each city (there's a detailed day-by-day itinerary guide that I've used in one of the sections of this article).

I usually use Booking to find good value for money accommodation.

Bear in mind that accommodation prices will always depend on the level of comfort, location, time of year and cost of living in the country. And remember that this is a physically tiring journey. There are many hours on board trains, so my recommendation is that you choose accommodation with a good level of comfort and that allows you to recover from your physical fatigue with a good night's sleep. Believe me, a good night's sleep will make all the difference to your day and your enjoyment of the trip.

Note: Personally, I prefer accommodation in the city center and close to the places I want to visit, so that I can save time during the day by reducing my travel time. Even if that means, in some cases, staying further away from train stations.

5. Internet and Data Card - How Roaming Works During This Trip

Having an internet connection is essential when traveling. Using google maps, finding accommodation or that restaurant you want to visit (you can do this offline, but sometimes you really need an internet connection). It's also essential for me to feel safer and more confident when I travel, especially if I'm traveling alone, because I know I'm always reachable and "connected to the world". When I travel, I mostly use eSIM cards or local mobile data cards (from the countries I visit).

What I usually do is use virtual data cards, the E-SIMs. These allow you to connect to the internet as soon as you enter a new country. I usually only buy local data cards for the countries I visit (physical cards) when I'm staying in the same country for more than a month, in which case it usually pays to buy a physical card.

During the Orient Express train journey between Paris and Istanbul, you'll pass through countries with different roaming policies. Here's a summary to keep you connected to the world without any surprises on your bill:

European Union

• Countries included: France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria

• If you have a SIM card from Portugal (or another EU country), you can use your mobile data, calls and SMS as if you were at home - at no extra cost.

However, some operators apply data limits when roaming. Check with your operator to see what limit is available for use in the EU.

Outside the European Union - Turkey

• Turkey doesn't belong to the EU, so roaming can be quite expensive. Avoid using mobile data from your usual card, unless you have a specific package for outside the EU.

Smart alternatives for Turkey:

• Use an international eSIM such as GigSkywhich you can buy before your trip and activate when you land.
• Use Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés or public transport and keep roaming turned off.

Extra tip:

• Download offline maps on Google Maps before each city.
• Use apps that work offline for translations, reservations or planning.
• Take a power bank - trains don't always have sockets.

6. Food

On any trip, food costs are an important part of the budget. And it's no different on the Orient Express. Here a lot will depend on the type of food you choose to eat. You can opt for street food, markets and supermarkets for a more modest budget. Or full meals in local restaurants, obviously at a higher cost. I've done a bit of both, some days you'll spend several hours on board trains or you'll have to dine on the train, and my recommendation is to always buy food and water to take on the trains, because sometimes the trains don't have a bar and there's nowhere to buy food or water at the stations. It's always better to be prepared and buy supplies in the city center.

7. Luggage

Take only the essentials. There is very little space on the trains. The best type of luggage is a small trolley, the hand luggage you can take in the airplane cabin is the luggage I recommend for this trip. Large backpacks are not the best option. In fact, a small suitcase (with the dimensions allowed for hand luggage) is the ideal type of luggage for this type of trip.

It's easy to stow on the train, takes up little space and is easier to transport in cities, a trolleybus with wheels is easier and quicker than carrying a backpack. I know this from experience. Large backpacks are a nightmare to pack on the train.

Also take a small backpack for everyday use in the cities and for your personal items. I also recommend a small purse for your documents and money, which shouldn't be in the backpack, but worn in front of you (to avoid pickpockets).

Don't forget to include comfortable clothing, suitable walking shoes and power adapters in your luggage.

8. Security and documentation

Check if you need a visa (especially for Turkey, if you're not an EU citizen).

In addition, take photocopies of your passport, insurance and reservations in a handy place.

9. Attractions and experiences

Many cities have tourist cards with tickets included (e.g. Vienna Pass, Budapest Card).

Set aside some of your budget for tickets and special experiences.

10. Extras

In your budget you should include a line for extra expenses. These can include souvenirs, coffee and unforeseen events.

The best part? You can totally adapt the trip to your style: picnic more or dine out, sleep in hostels or boutique hotels, walk more or take an Uber. It's a flexible trip par excellence!

Frequently Asked Questions about the Paris-Istanbul Train Journey

1) Is it possible to travel on the Orient Express without taking the luxury train?

Yes, this journey was made with normal trains, accessible to any traveler, recreating the mythical route with autonomy and flexibility.

2. How long does it take to get from Paris to Istanbul by train?

With stops in the main cities, the ideal is around 14 days to enjoy each destination at leisure. But it depends on the route you choose and how many days you plan to stay in each city. I opted to stay 1 or 2 days in each city and sleep two nights on night trains, and I made a point of arriving in Istanbul in the morning after spending the night on the train between Sofia and Istanbul.

3. Do I need a visa for this trip?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union can move freely between the countries mentioned. Check the rules for Turkey and the Balkans if you're not European. And remember that Bulgaria and Turkey do not belong to the Schengen area.

4. Is it possible to use the Interrail or Eurail pass for this route?

Yes, both passes are accepted in most of the countries included on the route. Be aware of compulsory reservations on some sections.

5. How much does a trip like this cost?

It depends on your style of travel, but an average and comfortable budget could be around €1,500 to €2,000, including transportation, accommodation, food and entrance fees to attractions. But remember that the cost of recreating the Orient Express will depend a lot on your expectations and how you organize the trip.

6. What is the best time of year to take this trip?

Spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.

7. Is the trip safe for solo travelers?

Yes, I traveled alone and felt safe in every city. As with any trip, it's important to be alert and take the usual precautions.

8. Do I need to speak several languages?

English is sufficient in most tourist locations. However, a few local words help and are always welcomed. And nowadays google translate works miracles 😁

Daily Itinerary of the Orient Express Train Journey

This was the itinerary I followed for 14 days, traveling by train through seven countries and exploring some of Europe's most fascinating cities. The structure by days corresponds to the pace I chose for this adventure, but it can (and should!) be adapted to your available time, interests and travel style. If you have more days, take the opportunity to stay longer in some cities; if you have fewer, choose the places that inspire you the most and take a more direct route.

The 14 days are ideal for those who only have 22 working days of vacation a year. It allows you to cross Europe by train, get to know 7 countries, and spend only half of your available vacation days. For those who have more time available or don't mind spending all their vacation at once, I would recommend staying 3 days in each city and extending the trip to 21 or 22 days.

Alternatively, do the 14 days and at the end of the train journey continue your journey through Turkey, and visit cities other than Istanbul. I recommend a balloon flight in Cappadocia and visiting the Turkish Riviera and the thermal pools in Pamukkale (known as the cotton mountains).

In each city I give you tips on what to see and do and at the end of each section you'll find the link where you can buy tickets for each tourist attraction through GetYourGuide.

First stop: Paris 🇫🇷 

Paris, the city of lights, is the perfect starting point for a journey across Europe. Elegant, romantic and steeped in history, Paris offers a first immersion in a world where ancient and modern live side by side. From the banks of the Seine to the hills of Montmartre, via cafés with chairs facing the street, everything in Paris invites contemplation and discovery. Before embarking on this long train journey, it's worth slowing down and feeling the Parisian rhythm: watching the people, tasting the local flavors and admiring the architecture.

Day 1-2: Paris, France

What to see:

• Sacré-Cœur and the Montmartre district
• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum
• Luxembourg Garden
• Île de la Cité and Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

What to do:

• Taking a sunset cruise on the Seine
• Explore the cafés of Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Visit local markets such as the Marché Bastille
• Climbing the Eiffel Tower at night

Artigos sobre Paris

• What to do in Paris the first time: essential guide
• When to visit Paris: what to expect in each season
• Paris travel guide
• How to get from the airport to the center of Paris: all the options
• Free museums in Paris: an itinerary by area
• How to save money in Paris: 20 tricks that really work
• 10 mistakes to avoid in Paris: a quick guide
• Walking tour of Montmartre - Paris
• Traditional food in Paris: 10 dishes and sweets you must try
• Traveling alone to Paris: everything you need to know
• Orient Express and Paris: where it all begins

🎟️ Do you want to visit the great icons of Paris without queuing?
Secure your tickets now for the main attractions and experiences in the City of Lights:

Tip: To explore Paris properly, buy a tourist pass for the main tourist attractions, and walk whenever possible. After all, the city is better without rushing.

Second stop: Munich 🇩🇪 

Munich is a vibrant, organized city full of contrasts. Known for its brewing tradition, palaces and baroque and neoclassical architecture, it is also a modern center with excellent museums and an active cultural scene. It was a short stop on this trip, but rich enough to feel the Bavarian atmosphere and taste German hospitality. Ideal for walking around, visiting markets and enjoying life in the squares.

Day 3: Munich, Germany

What to see:

• Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus clock
• Viktualienmarkt
• Englischer Garten
• Munich residence
• St. Peter's Church

What to do:

• Drinking a beer in a biergarten
• Try Bavarian specialties like pretzel and weisswurst
• Climb the tower for panoramic views over the city

🍻 From palaces to beer gardens - Munich has a lot to see!
Book the best experiences and guided tours in Bavaria's capital here:

Tip: As soon as you arrive, join the locals in a beer garden - it's the best way to feel the spirit of the city.

Third stop: Vienna 🇦🇹

Vienna is synonymous with imperial elegance, classical music and historic cafés. When you arrive, you can feel the influence of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire in every street, square and building. It's a city that invites contemplation and a calm pace, perfect for tasting typical sweets, listening to concerts and touring museums with priceless collections. It was one of the stops where I most felt the presence of history in dialogue with modernity.

Day 4-5: Vienna, Austria

What to see:

• Schönbrunn Palace
• State Opera
• St. Stephen's Cathedral
• Belvedere Palace
• Museum of Art History

What to do:

• Attend a classical music concert
• Visit historic cafés like Café Central
• Ferris wheel ride in the Prater

🎼 Vienna is an invitation to art, history and music.
Explore its palaces and museums with these highly rated experiences:

Tip: Before you leave, be sure to try the Apfelstrudel with cream in a traditional café. And if you get the chance, see a show at the Opera.

Artigos sobre Viena

• Visitar Viena – guia completo para a primeira viagem – Áustria
• Roteiro de 5 dias em Viena: cultura, cafés históricos e ritmo local
• Comida típica de Viena: o que comer e onde ir

Fourth stop: Budapest 🇭🇺

Budapest, divided between Buda and Pest by the majestic waters of the Danube, is one of Europe's most photogenic cities. With imposing buildings, historic thermal baths and a young, alternative energy, this city surprises at every turn. Strolling along the banks of the river, relaxing in the thermal baths or exploring the famous ruin pubs are experiences that stick in the memory. It was one of my favorite cities on this trip.

Day 6-7: Budapest, Hungary

What to see:

• Hungarian Parliament
• Memorial Shoes on the banks of the Danube
• Fishermen's Bastion
• Matias Church
• Széchenyi Thermal Baths
• Chain Bridge

What to do:

• Relaxing in the hot springs
• Dinner in a ruin pub in Pest
• Take a boat trip on the Danube

Artigos sobre Budapeste

• Roteiro de 3 dias em Budapeste – Hungria

💧 Thermal baths, boat trips or historical ruins?
Discover the best of Budapest with these unmissable activities:

Tip: To make it easier to get around, buy the Budapest Card. It also offers discounts on various attractions.

Fifth stop: Bucharest 🇷🇴

Often underestimated, Bucharest has turned out to be a vibrant capital with an interesting mix of classical, communist and contemporary architecture. It is a city full of contrasts, with an intense cultural life, surprising green spaces and a rich gastronomy. It has served as an excellent transition point between Central Europe and the Balkans.

Day 8-9: Bucharest, Romania

What to see:

• Palace of Parliament
• Roman Athenaeum
• Romanian Peasant Museum
• Lipscani's historic quarter
• Cişmigiu Garden

What to do:

• Discover the contrasting architecture
• Dinner in a traditional restaurant with live music
• Visiting hidden bookshops and cafés

🏛️ Between imposing palaces and historic neighborhoods, Bucharest surprises.
Book your visits now to discover the best of the Romanian capital:

Tip: During your stay, try the soup served in bread and the famous local sweets called papanasi. You'll love it!

Sixth stop: Sofia 🇧🇬

Sofia has a discreet charm, with a quiet pace of life and an authenticity that is hard to find in other capitals. Its Orthodox churches, Roman ruins and Soviet architecture live side by side, creating a unique setting. It was also the gateway to the deeper Balkans, with friendly people and delicious cuisine.

Day 10-11: Sofia, Bulgaria

What to see:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Church of St. George
• National Theater
• Sofia Square
• National History Museum

What to do:

• Stroll through the local markets and fairs
• Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery
• Exploring Orthodox churches

🕍 Sofia is discreet but full of unique places.
Secure your experiences and explore this Balkan capital with curious eyes:

Tip: Take appropriate clothing to visit religious sites. And, of course, check the timetable for Rila in advance.

Seventh and final stop: Istanbul 🇹🇷 

To arrive in Istanbul is to enter a new world - a bridge between continents, religions, cultures and flavors. Its enchanting chaos, the minarets that dominate the skyline, the fragrant markets and the ferry crossings between Europe and Asia make this city absolutely unique. It was the perfect end to this train journey, where I said goodbye to Europe with a heart full of memories.

Day 12-14: Istanbul, Turkey

What to see:

• Blue Mosque
• Santa Sofia
• Topkapi Palace
• Basilica Cistern
• Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
• Galata Tower
• Bosphorus

What to do:

• Crossing between the European and Asian sides by ferry
• Visit a traditional hammam
• Try baklava and apple tea

🌉 Two continents in one city, Istanbul is unforgettable.
Buy your tickets for the most popular mosques, cruises and guided tours:

Tip: Buy Istanbul City card for public transportation. You can also explore less touristy neighborhoods like Kadıköy.

Final Thoughts on the Paris-Istanbul Train Journey

This trip was much more than a geographical journey - it was a cultural, historical and personal dive. As I followed the tracks of the Orient Express with everyday trains, I felt part of a larger narrative, where each city represented a new chapter. The itinerary is versatile and accessible, and can be molded to suit each person's time, budget or interests. If you're looking for a trip full of meaning, beauty and variety, this route could well be your next big project. I hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own version of the Orient Express - at your own pace, with your own eyes and with your own heart open to the world.

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Do you want to go on this trip with me?

If this route inspires you, but you'd rather not worry about the organization, join me on one of the group trips I lead on the modern Orient Express! For 14 days, we'll travel together by train, with everything taken care of: tickets, accommodation, cultural activities and, of course, sharing, conversation and good cheer. You go with just your luggage - I'll take care of the rest.

👉 Click here to see the next dates and join the next edition!.