New Orient Express Arrives in Bucharest on its Journey from Rome to Istanbul. How Much Does the Luxury Trip Cost?

A new era of luxury rail travel is dawning as the "new Orient Express" prepares to embark on its inaugural journey from Rome to Istanbul. This opulent five-day, four-night experience, starting October 22, 2026, promises a return to the golden age of travel, harkening back to the legendary Orient Express that first captivated the world in 1883. With a starting price of 20,000 euros, this is not merely a train ride but a curated immersion into European grandeur, complete with fine dining, champagne, and breathtaking scenery.

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The train will depart from Rome, from Ostiense station, on October 22, 2026 and "promises five days and four nights of champagne, refined gastronomy and spectacular European landscapes, all in an experience with a pronounced Italian style", according to the organizers.

The journey's meticulously planned itinerary includes stops in iconic cities such as Venice and Budapest, allowing passengers to savor the unique charm of each destination. Significantly for Romania, the train will traverse the country, making stops in Brașov and Sinaia. This inclusion highlights the Carpathian region's enduring appeal and offers travelers a glimpse into its historical cities and stunning landscapes, weaving Romania into the fabric of this grand European tour.

This new venture draws inspiration from the original Orient Express, a symbol of international connectivity and sophisticated travel. The historical route, which once linked Paris to Constantinople (now Istanbul), evolved over time, with various iterations and stops, including a connection to Bucharest. The Simplon Orient Express, for instance, operated after World War I, with a segment dedicated to Romania that was detached at Vinkovci. The revival of such a route, albeit with modern luxury and a different starting point, speaks to a global fascination with historical travel narratives and the enduring allure of the East-West connection.

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The route continues through Romania, with stops in Brașov and Sinaia, where travelers can discover the landscapes and historic cities of the Carpathian region.

From a Romanian perspective, the inclusion of Brașov and Sinaia on this prestigious route is a notable affirmation of the country's tourism potential and its rich historical heritage. While international media might focus on the overall luxury and the Rome-Istanbul connection, for Romania, it represents an opportunity to showcase the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains and its historic towns to a discerning global clientele. This is a chance to position Romania not just as a transit country, but as a destination in its own right, offering a unique blend of natural splendor and historical depth that complements the journey's overall narrative of luxury and discovery.

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The experience promises luxury, refined gastronomy and some of the most spectacular European landscapes.