The 'most luxurious train journey in Europe' costing a whopping £66k

One of Europe's most luxurious train journeys is a five-night expedition across the continent that costs a whopping £66,000. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a more modern recreation of the iconic Orient Express that travelled between Paris and Istanbul before and after WW1. It offers a variety of different journeys across Europe, departing from cities such as Amsterdam, Budapest, and Istanbul.

The voyage from Paris to Venice costs as much as £10,165 per person for a grand suite. Other options are a historic cabin for £3,530 or a suit for £7,985. These figures pale in comparison to the Express' most famous route - Paris to Istanbul. The five-night adventure will set you back an eye-watering £17,500 for a historic cabin, £38,000 for a suite, and £66,200 for a grand suite.

The grand suite is the height of luxury, boasting a double or twin bedroom, living area with space for private dining, private en-suite bathroom, and unlimited champagne.

After departing from Paris, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express goes through Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, before arriving in Istanbul.

Along the way, travellers spend three nights sleeping on the train and the other two in Bucharest and Budapest, where there will also be city tours. The price also includes a Danube cruise and a visit to Peleș Castle in Romania.

Lunch and dinner in Budapest and dinner in Bucharest is provided, as well as continental breakfasts, three-course lunches, and four-course dinners on the train.

These fancy meals have strict dress codes, with many travellers opting for black tie for dinner and a suit and a tie at lunch, with jeans not being allowed at any time.

One person wrote of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express on Tripadvisor: "We had a ball. It really is an amazing experience. It does not disappoint on any level. George our carriage steward was top notch and looked after us so well.

"All of the staff are professional and friendly. It’s truly magical. Food, drinks all exemplary and the carriages are beautiful and very comfortable. 10/10 could not fault any part of the whole experience."

Another commented: "This is a truly exceptional experience. It was a complete joy to travel by train through Europe, and to have time to soak up the wonderful scenery at leisure."

A third added: "From start to finish, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express was pure magic. We’re so grateful to have experienced this legendary train — it exceeded all expectations."