Eastern Express: From Paris to Istanbul

Please pack as lightly as possible, as you’ll be travelling on public transport with limited storage space. You should be comfortable lifting and carrying your luggage, including on and off trains, up stairs, and over cobblestone streets.
The main mode of transport on this trip is scheduled local and intercity trains, following routes once used by the historic Orient Express in the late 19th century. You’ll travel in standard economy or 2nd class carriages, depending on availability. The overnight train from Plovdiv to Istanbul features quad-share, bunk-style compartments—please refer to the daily itinerary for full details. Minor train delays are also common on this route.
If you are travelling to Paris from London, we recommend taking the Eurostar from St Pancras International, which takes just under 2.5 hours and avoids airport queues, making it the most convenient option.
Please note that hotel rooms in Europe can be smaller than what you may be used to, and double beds are not always standard.
One of the highlights of travelling in Europe is how easily cities can be explored on foot. Your leader will guide you on regular orientation walks, with plenty of free time to discover more independently. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended for this trip.

Visa details are provided through Sherpa, a third-party service. The “Add connection” feature only shows transit visa requirements, not full entry visas. Additional service fees apply if you purchase a visa via Sherpa.

Accommodation: 13 nights in hotels, 1 night on an overnight train
The accommodation style outlined in the day-to-day itinerary is provided as a guideline only and may occasionally change. In rare cases, alternative arrangements may be necessary due to limited availability in our preferred properties. When this happens, we will always aim to use accommodation of a similar standard.
Throughout the trip, we do our best to ensure rooms are ready upon arrival—especially if we arrive before standard check-in times. However, this is not always guaranteed. In some cases, you may need to store your luggage with reception and enjoy free time exploring your destination while rooms are being prepared. On certain departures, shared day-use rooms may be available until check-in is possible.
Occasional Alternative Accommodation
While the planned accommodation is used as a guideline, similar-standard alternatives may be arranged on rare occasions due to availability.
Check-in Time
Hotel rooms are not always available immediately upon arrival. If early check-in is not possible, luggage storage will be provided so you can explore the destination while waiting.
Pre / Post Trip Accommodation
If you book additional pre- or post-trip nights (where available), you may be required to change rooms from your main trip accommodation.
Facilities
Please note that accommodation standards in Europe can vary. Some properties may not offer en-suite bathrooms or air-conditioning. Additionally, kettles and fridges are not commonly provided in European hotels.

Hôtel Paris Lafayette
23 rue des Messageries, 75010 Paris, France
About the hotel
Opened in 2007, Hôtel Paris Lafayette is a comfortable 3-star property located in the heart of Paris. Tucked away on a quiet street, it offers an ideal base for exploring the city. Each morning, guests can enjoy a classic French breakfast with artisanal jams and rich Arabica coffee in a bright, glass-roofed dining space. Recently renovated, the hotel features natural materials and botanical-inspired design touches, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Getting there from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Take the RER B train to Gare du Nord (approximately 30–35 minutes). From there, the hotel is a short 10-minute taxi ride or a quick metro journey on Line 7 to Cadet or Le Peletier, followed by a brief walk.
Alternatively, taxis or private airport transfers are available and take around 40–50 minutes depending on traffic. A private transfer can also be arranged through your travel agent upon request.