The world’s two most iconic tourist trains, the Hungarian State Railways (MAV) Paris-Istanbul train and the legendary Simplon Orient Express, are returning to the enchanting Istanbul route. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu created great excitement in the tourism community by announcing that these two special trains will arrive in Istanbul this week.
Paris-Istanbul Tourist Train in Türkiye Tonight
According to the information provided by Minister Uraloğlu, the eagerly awaited Paris-Istanbul tourist train of the Hungarian MAV will enter Turkish territory tonight (Saturday, May 17) from the Kapıkule border gate. Setting out from the heart of Europe, this special train will pass through Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia and Bulgaria and reach the historical Sirkeci Train Station tomorrow (Sunday, May 18).
This special journey hosted by TCDD Taşımacılık will offer distinguished tourists visiting Istanbul the opportunity to experience the city's unique cultural and historical riches. Guests will accumulate unforgettable memories in the enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul. The tourist train's adventure in Istanbul will be short-lived and the return journey will begin on Monday, May 19. The train, which will serve with 60 cars with a capacity of 14 passengers on its first journey this year, will return to Istanbul on May 29 and visit the city once more.
The Legend Returns: Simplon Orient Express in Istanbul on June 4
Another important development that Minister Uraloğlu announced is that the Simplon Orient Express, one of the most luxurious and iconic trains in the world, will start operating in Istanbul again. This legendary train, which carried 148 passengers on two trips last year, will arrive in Istanbul on June 16th this year with its magnificent structure of 4 cars.
Istanbul, one of the most important stops on the historical route covering many distinguished cities in Europe, has always been one of the most popular destinations for Simplon Orient Express passengers. Travelers on this special train will embark on an unforgettable journey towards the historical and cultural richness of Europe and Türkiye with a unique combination of luxury and comfort. Simplon Orient Express' visit to Istanbul will also be short and the return journey will begin on June 6.
The return of these two world-famous tourist trains to Istanbul is considered an important indicator of how valuable Türkiye's tourism potential is in the international arena. These special trips will both contribute greatly to the promotion of Türkiye and offer an unforgettable opportunity for distinguished tourists who want to experience the unique beauties of Istanbul.
