The legendary Orient Express, often called the “palace on rails,” has made its way into Turkey once again. Entering through Edirne’s Kapıkule Border Gate, it was welcomed with traditional music, dancing, and joyful celebration.
A Historic Train with a Storied Past
This is no ordinary train. The Orient Express has been traveling the Paris to Istanbul route since 1883 and gained worldwide fame thanks to Agatha Christie’s novel Murder on the Orient Express. While times have changed, the train’s allure remains as strong as ever.
From Paris to Turkey with Stops Along the Way
The train departed Paris on Friday, May 30, with 66 passengers. Its first stop was Budapest, followed by Bucharest, where two travelers left the group. In the early hours of the morning, the remaining 64 passengers arrived at the Turkish border in Edirne, ready to continue their luxurious journey.
A Warm Turkish Welcome in Kapıkule
As the train pulled into Kapıkule Station, the passengers were greeted by a traditional Turkish folk dance group. Accompanied by drums and local music, the performance brought smiles to the visitors’ faces. Many joined in the dancing, creating a festive and friendly atmosphere on the platform.
Train Manager Shares the Joy of Being Back in Turkey
Train manager Bruno Janssens expressed how pleased he was to return to Turkey. He recapped the journey, mentioning the stops in Budapest and Bucharest, and confirmed that this was the first trip of the year. He added that the Orient Express would be back again at the end of September and in early November. He described traveling through Turkey on such a historic and mystical route as a special privilege.
American Passenger is a Big Fan of Turkish TV Series
One of the American passengers, Rand Mason, shared that his interest in Turkey was sparked by Turkish television dramas. He mentioned being a big fan of actors Engin Akyürek and Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ, and said he had enjoyed watching Kara Para Aşk and Sefirin Kızı. For him, this journey was an exciting way to explore a country he had only seen on screen and to learn more about its culture and history.
A Nostalgic Return for a Lebanese-American Guest
Another traveler, John Hajjar from Boston, who is of Lebanese descent, spoke about his excitement at seeing Istanbul again. He had visited the city about forty years ago as a student and said the welcome he received at the station reminded him of home. Seeing the drums and dancers felt familiar, and he emphasized the cultural ties between Lebanon and Turkey. He said he was eager to rediscover the country’s heritage and beauty.
Next Stop: Istanbul
From Edirne, the train continued on to Istanbul, where a full itinerary of sightseeing and cultural experiences awaits. The guests will enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, visit major landmarks, and take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. After several days in Istanbul, the Orient Express is scheduled to return to Paris on Sunday, June 8, at 10 PM, carrying a total of 80 passengers.
A Journey That Blends Luxury, History, and Discovery
The Orient Express continues to offer more than just travel. It delivers an unforgettable experience that connects people to history, elegance, and the thrill of discovery. Whether you are passionate about trains, storytelling, or world cultures, this journey through Europe and into Turkey remains one of the most magical experiences you can have.
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