A honeymoon Orient Express route through Europe

When I was asked to put together my good friend’s honeymoon, I was ecstatic - what an honour - and all the way from Australia as well! When they asked for me to use the Orient Express route as inspiration, I loved it even more - what a great challenge - and I always like piecing a travel-jigsaw together!

It didn't all go according to plan; one of the trains was delayed which created a knock-on effect, but overall, they were delighted and had an incredible time exploring the delights of Europe, by rail, from Paris to Vienna, then across to Budapest, onwards to Bucharest before then hopping a flight to Istanbul for a luxurious final few nights at the Sura Hagia Sofia.

Here's what they had to say about it:

Which was your favourite, and would you go back?

Istanbul was our favourite city. It's rare to get somewhere that you've read about and dreamed of, and have it live up to your expectations. Istanbul possibly exceeded them - the people are friendly, the food delicious, the cobbled alleys so picturesque! I'd love to spend more time in Turkey based on my short stay in Istanbul!

Did the trains work out as a convenient way to travel and were the connections good overall?

The trains are a great way to get around if you're not in a hurry. It's nice to be able to enjoy the journey and scenery as well as the destination. Quick tip for anyone else doing the trip - there is no restaurant car between Budapest and Romania, so bring plenty of water and food on the train with you!

Would you recommend the journey you took or make any changes?

Bucharest was our least favourite place on the trip, though we did a food-based walking tour which was fun! Still nice to visit, but I'd recommend only a couple of days.

What was your favourite food throughout Europe?

I'm lactose intolerant, so luckily the hotel in Austria has lactose free milk and yoghurt for breakfast, and I had a lactose free ice cream at a park! All the food we had in Istanbul was delicious.

What's one thing you would recommend doing whilst there?

We loved the Moulin Rouge (and the dinner we had there!) The show was fun and energetic, and I loved every minute of it. I wasn't expecting the acrobats that came out between dances, but they were fantastic too. And everyone should treat themselves to a Turkish bath in Istanbul. We went at the hotel and it was so good.

So there it is - what a fantastic trip they had and what a way to travel! If you'd like any other details on this or want to put your very own Orient Express-style journey together, then just ask me and we can start.