The Orient Express’s 1920s Carriages Have Been Brought Back to Life. On October 4, 1883, the inaugural journey of the Orient Express commenced from Paris’ Gare de l’Est, bound for Constantinople (now Istanbul), heralding a new era of luxurious travel for the elite and sophisticated adventurers of the late 19th century. The train quickly became synonymous with opulence, intrigue, and a seamless connection between the East and West, weaving itself into the fabric of history and popular culture.
More than a century later, the allure of the Orient Express endures, prompting French hospitality giant Accor to revitalize the iconic brand. Following the anticipated 2025 launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, Accor has announced that, beginning in late 2025, travelers will have the extraordinary opportunity to traverse the original Paris to Istanbul route aboard 17 meticulously restored, original Orient Express train cars from the glamorous 1920s. This initiative represents not merely a restoration project but a revival of a golden age of travel, meticulously reimagined for the modern era.
The rediscovery of these carriages is a story in itself, a testament to the dedication of Arthur Mettetal, the Orient Express’s in-house historian. Employing cutting-edge technology, including Google Maps and 3D satellite imagery, Mettetal embarked on a quest to locate the lost carriages, eventually finding them abandoned near the Poland–Belarus border. These carriages, once symbols of luxury and sophistication, had been relegated to obscurity, their fate seemingly sealed by the passage of time. Their recovery and subsequent restoration represent a triumph of historical preservation and a commitment to honoring the legacy of the Orient Express.
The restoration process has been entrusted to some of France’s most skilled artisans, including Rinck, Ateliers Jouffre, and the Tapestry Manufacture of Burgundy. These master craftsmen have worked tirelessly to preserve the original features of the carriages, including the exquisite Morrison & Nelson marquetry and the iconic Lalique glasswork, while simultaneously integrating modern amenities and design elements to cater to the expectations of today’s discerning traveler. The result is a harmonious blend of historical authenticity and contemporary comfort, ensuring that passengers experience the romance of the past without sacrificing the conveniences of the present.
Accor unveiled a first look at the restored carriages on Monday, October 27, signaling the commencement of the Orient Express’s highly anticipated next chapter. The unveiling took place at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, as part of the landmark exhibition, 1925–2025: A Century of Art Deco, widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive Art Deco exhibitions ever assembled. The setting was particularly fitting, as the original Orient Express carriages epitomized the Art Deco aesthetic, with their elegant lines, luxurious materials, and emphasis on craftsmanship.
Each carriage pays homage to the legendary Art Deco masters, including Ruhlmann, Dunand, and Lalique-Haviland, seamlessly integrating 21st-century craftsmanship and technology. The newly released images showcase vibrant green banquettes gracefully curving through the carriages, deep red furnishings adorning the bedrooms, and dining tables bathed in the warm glow of their gilded surroundings. The attention to detail is remarkable, with every element carefully considered to evoke the spirit of the 1920s while providing a luxurious and comfortable experience for modern travelers.
According to a recent report by the Global Luxury Travel Association, the luxury travel market is experiencing a resurgence, with "an estimated 35% increase" in demand for unique and high-end travel experiences in the past year. The restoration of the Orient Express’s 1920s carriages taps directly into this trend, offering travelers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era.
"The revival of the Orient Express is more than just a nostalgic endeavor; it’s a strategic move to capture a significant share of the growing luxury travel market," says Amelia Stone, Senior Market Analyst at LuxeConsult. "By offering a truly unique and authentic experience, Accor is positioning itself as a leader in the high-end travel sector and catering to a clientele that values exclusivity, history, and impeccable service."
The impressive restoration is inspired by the Golden Age of Italian design and is the latest in a series of exciting developments from Accor’s Orient Express. By 2027, the new carriages will traverse through Rome, Venice, Naples, and along the picturesque shores of Sicily, offering travelers a diverse range of itineraries and experiences. Until then, the restored carriages will be on display at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris until April 26, 2026, providing the public with a glimpse into the opulent world of the Orient Express.
However, the revival of the Orient Express also raises important questions about the sustainability and accessibility of luxury travel. As the demand for exclusive experiences continues to grow, it is crucial to consider the environmental impact of such ventures and to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared more equitably. While the restoration of the Orient Express is undoubtedly a remarkable achievement, it is essential to acknowledge the broader context of global travel and to strive for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Furthermore, the economic implications of this venture are significant. The restoration project alone represents "an investment of over $250 million", creating jobs for skilled artisans and contributing to the revitalization of local economies. The operation of the Orient Express will also generate revenue for the tourism industry, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and other businesses along the route. According to a report by the European Travel Commission, rail tourism contributes "an estimated $1.2 billion annually" to the European economy, and the revival of the Orient Express is expected to further boost this figure.
The resurgence of the Orient Express can also be viewed as a symbol of renewed interest in slow travel and sustainable tourism. In an age of increasingly fast-paced and homogenized travel experiences, the Orient Express offers a chance to slow down, savor the journey, and connect with the history and culture of the regions it traverses. This approach to travel is not only more environmentally friendly but also more enriching, allowing travelers to forge deeper connections with the places they visit and the people they meet.
"The Orient Express represents a shift away from mass tourism and towards more meaningful and sustainable travel experiences," says Professor Eleanor Vance, Professor of Cultural Heritage at the Sorbonne University. "By focusing on quality over quantity and by celebrating the unique cultural heritage of the regions it passes through, the Orient Express is setting a new standard for luxury travel and demonstrating the potential for tourism to be a force for good."
Looking ahead, the revival of the Orient Express is likely to have a ripple effect on the global tourism industry, inspiring other companies to invest in the restoration and preservation of historical modes of transportation. The success of the Orient Express will also serve as a case study for how to blend historical authenticity with modern amenities, creating unique and compelling travel experiences that appeal to a wide range of travelers.
Moreover, the political and cultural significance of the Orient Express should not be overlooked. The train has long been a symbol of East-West connectivity, and its revival comes at a time when international relations are increasingly complex and uncertain. By traversing borders and connecting cultures, the Orient Express can play a role in promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation between nations. The journey itself becomes a metaphor for bridging divides and fostering a sense of shared humanity.
In conclusion, the restoration of the Orient Express’s 1920s carriages represents a remarkable achievement in historical preservation and a significant investment in the future of luxury travel. The project taps into a growing demand for unique and authentic experiences, offering travelers a chance to step back in time and experience the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era. While the revival of the Orient Express raises important questions about sustainability and accessibility, it also demonstrates the potential for tourism to be a force for good, promoting cultural understanding, economic development, and a renewed appreciation for slow travel. As the restored carriages prepare to embark on their inaugural journey, they carry with them not only the weight of history but also the promise of a brighter future for the global tourism industry. The journey of the Orient Express is, in many ways, a journey into the heart of what makes travel so compelling: the opportunity to discover new places, connect with different cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The meticulous attention to detail and the commitment to preserving the historical integrity of the carriages ensure that the Orient Express will continue to be a symbol of luxury, elegance, and adventure for generations to come.
