Step Aboard the Extraordinary: Experience the Art of Travel with Orient Express and Tranquil Escapes

Christine Gordineer

Founder & Travel Curator

Few names evoke the timeless glamour, mystery, and romance of travel quite like Orient Express. For over 140 years, this iconic brand has defined high-end travel — setting luxury in motion from its legendary railway origins to a bold new era across land, sea, and rail.

At Tranquil Escapes, we are thrilled to collaborate with Orient Express to bring our discerning travelers access to L'Orient Express, La Dolce Vita Orient Express, the Grand Italian Tours, and bespoke journeys of a lifetime. Whether you dream of stepping aboard the 17 sumptuously restored carriages of L'Orient Express on its inaugural Paris-to-Istanbul route, gliding through historic Italian landscapes in retro-chic splendor, or sailing turquoise waters aboard the world's largest sailing yacht, your storybook getaway begins here.

L'Orient Express: The Legendary 1920s Train Reborn

Born from a dream that defies time, L'Orient Express invites travelers to relive the ultimate rail legend. Reimagined by visionary architect Maxime d'Angeac (Artistic Director of Orient Express), this historic set of 17 original 1920s and 1930s carriages — discovered and restored from the historic *Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express* — merges classic Art Deco splendor with modern codes of ultra-luxury:

• The Bar Car: Anchored by Second Empire-style domes of light supported by four majestic columns, the Bar Car features rosewood panelling, marble accents, and vaulted ceilings with Lalique "flower" lamps. Guests gather on plush green velvet lounges amidst original marquetry panels and "Blackbirds & Grapes" motif carpets.
• The Dining Car: Under a mirrored ceiling crossed by arches reflecting soft, subdued light, napa-upholstered armchairs and tables line up beside large vista windows. A private lounge reveals original marquetry, while a glass-walled open kitchen showcases chef choreography in real time.
• The Suites: A masterclass in space and comfort where partitions are wrapped in precious woods and leather wall coverings. By day, plush sofas invite reading and relaxation; by night, a seamless transformation turns the room into a deep-sleep sanctuary with a 2 x 1.40-meter bed, marble-and-toilet private ensuite bathrooms, and mother-of-pearl and bronze detailing.
• Inaugural Paris-to-Istanbul Route: Retracing the legendary 1883 inaugural route across Europe, linking Paris, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest, and Istanbul in absolute splendor.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express: Retro-Chic Italian Rail Travel

Step back into the golden age of European travel — reimagined through mid-century Italian design. La Dolce Vita Orient Express pays homage to the vibrant spirit and artistic flair of 1960s and 70s Italy. Every carriage blends polished craftsmanship, warm brass details, and plush mid-century interiors, creating an intimate sanctuary on wheels.

Onboard, journeying becomes an art form. Indulge in gourmet Italian gastronomy, relax in curated lounges over regional aperitifs, and watch dramatic vistas unfold outside your window.

Iconic Rail Routes to Inspire Your Wanderlust

Rome to Istanbul: Trace historic trade paths across continents on a grand multi-night voyage linking Italy's Eternal City to the gateway of Asia.

Venice & Tuscany: Meander through rolling vineyard hills, historic olive groves, and architectural marvels before arriving at Venice's canal-lined waterways.

Eternal Stones of Matera: Journey into Southern Italy to discover the ancient stone architecture and dramatic cliffside landscapes of Matera.

Northern Greens: Discover Italy's lush northern landscapes, scenic alpine foothills, and serene lakes in ultimate comfort.

Beyond the Tracks: Grand Italian Tours & Ocean Voyages

The modern Orient Express universe extends far beyond rail journey itineraries.

The Seas: Orient Express Corinthian Sailing Yacht

Set sail aboard the Orient Express Corinthian, an unprecedented 220-meter sailing yacht that unites French decorative craftsmanship with cutting-edge marine innovation. Embark on sun-drenched voyages through the Caribbean — exploring hidden gems like Virgin Gorda, Saint-Barth, and the Leeward Isles — or cruise along iconic Mediterranean coastlines in ultra-luxury suites.

Land Sanctuaries: Iconic Luxury Hotels

Complete your Grand Italian Tour with immersive stays at legendary city palaces:

Orient Express La Minerva (Rome): A restored 17th-century palace cradled in the quiet embrace of Piazza della Minerva, steps from iconic Roman landmarks.

Orient Express Venezia (Venice): Set within the 15th-century Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, where historic frescoes and canal views meet contemporary Italian elegance.

Why Book Your Orient Express Journey with Tranquil Escapes?

A journey of this caliber deserves seamless execution. Organizing high-end logistics — coordinating rail departures, private transfers, pre- and post-hotel stays, and local excursions — can feel overwhelming.

When you book through Tranquil Escapes, we take care of every detail:

Seamless Itinerary Design: We integrate your Orient Express train or yacht journey into a cohesive, tailor-made vacation, complete with private boutique hotel stays and immersive local activities.

Stress-Free Logistics: From private airport transfers to train platform greetings, we handle all timing and logistics so you arrive at your carriage or cabin completely relaxed.

Personalized Touch: Enjoy bespoke recommendations, private tasting tours, and dedicated concierge service from start to finish.

Ready to Begin Your Journey of a Lifetime?

Let us handle the details while you prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure across land, rail, or sea.

Contact the team at Tranquil Escapes today to design your stress-free Orient Express itinerary and experience the ultimate art of travel.

Travel With Total Peace of Mind

Protect your investment with Faye Travel Insurance — three-tier plans with app-based claims, real-time reimbursements, and Cancel For Any Reason coverage for bespoke itineraries.

Affiliated partner of Tranquil Escapes