# Venice Simplon Orient Express Istanbul journey

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/venice-simplon-orient-express-istanbul-journey
> Updated: 2026-09-29T08:32:08.000Z. Sources: 17. Developments: 2.

The Venice Simplon Orient Express, operated by the UK-based company Belmond, is conducting its second journey of the year through Europe to Istanbul. The luxury rail route includes stops in France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria.

After departing Paris on September 25, the train arrived in Istanbul following a detour to Edirne for passport controls due to renovations at the Kapıkule station. Upon arrival at Bakırköy Station, a welcoming ceremony was held for the crew and more than 70 passengers.

Train official Francesco Bonotto emphasized the significance of the destination, stating, “If there is no Istanbul, then there is no magic or extraordinary nature to this journey.” The train is scheduled to begin its return journey from Bakırköy Station on October 2, exiting Türkiye via the Kapıkule border crossing later that evening.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-29: Venice Simplon Orient Express arrives in Istanbul

The historic Venice Simplon Orient Express has arrived in Istanbul from Paris, marking its second journey to Türkiye this year after traveling through several European countries.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turistik-karaelmas-ekspresi-to-resume-ankara-zonguldak-service-in-october

### 2026-09-24: Venice Simplon Orient Express to arrive in Istanbul on September 30

The Venice Simplon Orient Express will arrive in Istanbul on September 30, following a luxury route from Paris through several European countries before departing again on October 2.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/venice-simplon-orient-express-to-arrive-in-istanbul-on-september-30

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Cite as: Venice Simplon Orient Express Istanbul journey. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/venice-simplon-orient-express-istanbul-journey