{"id":316870,"date":"2024-05-21T22:22:21","date_gmt":"2024-05-21T20:22:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.discoverwalks.com\/blog\/?post_type=news&p=316870"},"modified":"2024-05-21T22:22:21","modified_gmt":"2024-05-21T20:22:21","slug":"istanbul-storied-orient-express-terminal-and-rail-line-reborn-as-coastal-train-gem","status":"publish","type":"news","link":"https:\/\/www.discoverwalks.com\/blog\/news\/istanbul-storied-orient-express-terminal-and-rail-line-reborn-as-coastal-train-gem\/","title":{"rendered":"Istanbul Storied Orient Express Terminal and Rail Line Reborn as Coastal Train Gem"},"content":{"rendered":"

In a revival heralded by travel experts, Istanbul’s historic Sirkeci Station-Kazl\u0131cesme line has been named one of Lonely Planet’s Top 6 European Rail Journeys for Summer 2024<\/a>. The famed but long-neglected terminus of the legendary Orient Express is experiencing a renaissance thanks to a newly opened 8.3 km (5\u200b.2 mile) light rail line along the Bosphorus strait to the Kazl\u0131cesme neighborhood.<\/p>\n

Rebirth of an Istanbul Landmark<\/h3>\n

Sirkeci Station, opened in 1888, was the iconic final destination for the Orient Express’ fabled transcontinental journey from Â鶹APP. But it fell into disuse after long-distance services ceased in 2013, overshadowed by the modern Marmaray rail tunnel beneath the Bosphorus.<\/p>\n

Now, this landmark of 19th century rail travel is back on the tourist map. As Lonely Planet reports, “There’s life in old Sirkeci yet…The opening of the new light rail service to Kazl\u0131\u00e7e\u015fme restores trains to the original train line.”<\/p>\n

A Seafront Journey Steeped in History<\/h3>\n

The new Sirkeci-Kazl\u0131\u00e7e\u015fme line hugs the shoreline, allowing passengers to soak in views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn and old city on Europe’s only transcontinental rail route. Stops like Kumkap\u0131 offer a chance to “hop off for a seafood meal,” making it ideal for visitors craving an immersive Istanbul experience.<\/p>\n

“This line might even be an excuse to hop on the train,” Lonely Planet declares, billing it as a rare opportunity for “nostalgic travellers” to experience the evocative atmosphere of one of Europe’s oldest terminals.<\/p>\n

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