The Orient Express is more than just a train—it symbolizes luxury, mystery, and adventure. Since its first journey in 1883, this legendary railway has carried royalty, diplomats, spies, and famous writers, inspiring countless novels and films. Throughout its history, the Orient Express has hosted numerous world-famous figures, including Queen Elizabeth II, Emperor Franz Joseph, Leo Tolstoy, Marlene Dietrich, and Charles de Gaulle, each experiencing the train’s legendary luxury and elegance. Although the original Orient Express ceased operations, its legacy continues through various luxury train services that retrace its historical routes.
Bulgaria has played an essential role in the Orient Express journey for over a century. Two key routes crossed the country, one through Sofia and another through Ruse, linking Bulgaria to some of Europe’s most splendid capitals. Even today, modern luxury trains inspired by the Orient Express occasionally pass through Bulgaria, keeping the legend alive.
A Brief History of the Orient Express
The Orient Express was launched on October 4, 1883, by the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL)—the first route connected Paris and Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), offering unprecedented comfort and speed. Over time, multiple routes were developed, some passing through Bulgaria.
The Orient Express and Its Changing Routes
Over the decades, the Orient Express had several variations, adjusting to political changes, wars, and evolving railway networks. The two most famous Bulgarian routes were:
The “Classic Route” (Via Sofia)
- Paris → Munich → Vienna → Budapest → Belgrade → Sofia → Plovdiv → Istanbul
- This route became the primary connection between Western Europe and the Ottoman capital, Constantinople (Istanbul).
The “Danube Route” (Via Ruse)
- Paris → Munich → Vienna → Budapest → Bucharest → Ruse → Varna → Istanbul
- This alternative route bypassed Sofia, using Bulgaria’s largest Danube port, Ruse, before reaching Varna, where passengers could board a ferry to Istanbul.
During the Cold War, the Orient Express continued running with reduced luxury and many border delays. By the 1970s, declining demand led to the gradual discontinuation of the original service. The final Paris-Istanbul route ended in 1977, although other trains using the Orient Express brand continued to operate.
The Orient Express and Bulgaria: Luxury on the Rails
The Sofia Route: A Gateway to the Balkans
One of the most famous Orient Express routes included a stop in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. For decades, this was the primary way Western travelers reached the Balkans and Turkey. The train’s arrival in Sofia was always grand, with diplomats, aristocrats, and business elites passing through.
The Ruse Route: The Danube Connection
Before rail lines were extended through Bulgaria, the Orient Express often traveled via Ruse, Bulgaria’s largest Danube River port. In the late 19th century, wealthy passengers would disembark in Ruse and take a ferry to Varna, where they boarded another train or continued by ship to Istanbul. This route was crucial in the early years of the service before direct rail lines were built through the mountains.
The Venice-Simplon Orient Express in Bulgaria
Although the original Orient Express no longer operates, several luxury train services continue its legacy. One of the most famous is the Venice-Simplon Orient Express (VSOE), which recreates the experience of the classic 1920s luxury train.
In 2017, the Venice-Simplon Orient Express made a unique journey through Bulgaria and was spotted in Ruse, reviving nostalgia for the golden age of train travel. The sight of the historic blue and gold carriages in Bulgaria was a reminder of the grandeur of the original Orient Express.
Interesting Facts About the Orient Express and Bulgaria
- Agatha Christie’s Connection – The famous novel “Murder on the Orient Express” (1934) was inspired by Agatha Christie’s journey aboard the train. While the book is set in Yugoslavia, many believe the inspiration came from the Balkan leg of the journey, including Bulgaria.
- WWII and Espionage – During World War II, the Orient Express was used for diplomatic missions, espionage, and smuggling, with Bulgaria being a key stop on these secretive journeys.
- The “Cold War” Orient Express – Even during communist rule, the train continued running, but luxury was replaced with a more practical service, and border crossings became strict, particularly in Bulgaria.
- The “Balkan Express” – After the classic Orient Express ceased operation, the route was briefly continued under the name “Balkan Express”, passing through Bulgaria until the early 2000s.
Can You Still Ride the Orient Express Today?
While the original Orient Express route is no longer in service, train lovers can still relive the experience through several luxury services:
- Venice-Simplon Orient Express (VSOE) – The most famous modern version runs from London to Venice and occasionally extends to Istanbul via Bulgaria.
- The Belmond Royal Scotsman is a similar luxury train experience focused on Scotland and Europe.
- Golden Eagle Danube Express – A high-end train that follows parts of the old Orient Express routes, including stops in Bulgaria on select journeys.
The Legacy Lives On
The Orient Express may no longer operate as it once did, but its legend lives on, especially in countries like Bulgaria, where the train’s historic routes passed through. Whether stopping in Sofia or Ruse, the Orient Express played a crucial role in connecting East and West, and even today, luxury trains occasionally retrace its path, keeping the magic alive.
