One of the most iconic rail journeys in the world, this 8-night holiday begins on the edge of Europe in the cultural melting pot of Istanbul, before traversing the continent, taking in four capitals and seven countries. Our itinerary includes three nights on board the train itself, and five nights accommodation.

Start your holiday by flying direct to Istanbul, where you will stay for two nights in this uniquely fascinating city which straddles the border between Europe and Asia.

Board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in the evening and settle in to your private cabin before a delicious dinner curated by the celebrated chef Jean Imbert as the train travels west towards Bulgaria. The following day you travel into Romania, where guests disembark in Bucharest and spend two days exploring the city and Peles Castle.

After a night in Bucharest, board the train again and enjoy dinner on board as you travel into Hungary. You will have an afternoon in the Hungarian capital, Budapest, and stay overnight in one of the city's best hotels, before embarking again for a final night on board the train. Arriving in Paris the following morning, you will spend a night in a Kirker hotel in the city and return to London by Eurostar. Alternatively, ask about direct flights to your local airport, or extending your holiday in Paris for a few days.