(2023) MiNr. 8619 ** SH 615 - France - Orient Express 1883-2023

Orient Express: Legend on the French rails

When you say Orient Express, most people think of luxury, mystery and a dose of nostalgia for the golden age of railways. This iconic train first hit the tracks in 1883 thanks to Belgian entrepreneur Georges Nagelmackers and quickly became a symbol of luxury travel. The route ran from Paris to Istanbul, covering thousands of kilometres and linking the West with the East.

French elegance on the rails

France played a pivotal role in the story of the Orient Express - not only as the starting point of its legendary route, but also thanks to the Parisian railway workshops and carriage design that were the pinnacle of the art of the time. The interiors, decorated with marquetry, crystal chandeliers and silk curtains, offered passengers an experience comparable to a stay in the finest hotels in Paris. In addition, the gastronomic experiences in the dining cars under the direction of French chefs remain legendary to this day.

Orient Express Today: Back on the Scene

Even though the original Orient Express ceased operations in 1977, its spirit lives on. Thanks to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express project, it is now possible to relive this unique atmosphere on selected routes, including those in France. Historic carriages, carefully restored to their original condition, take you back to an era when travel was an art in itself.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for inspiration for your next journey, the Orient Express remains a symbol of irresistible French charm on the rails.