LEGO Transports The Orient Express’ Magic Into Magnificent 2,540-Piece Model

By Mikelle Leow, 17 Nov 2023

Image via LEGO

LEGO and travel aficionados, get ready for a sublime journey back in time. The toymaker has unveiled a stunning recreation of the legendary Orient Express, one of the world’s most luxurious and iconic trains, to mark its 140th anniversary.

For over a century, the Orient Express has prevailed as a moving symbol of French opulence. Known as a “rolling palace,” it was the first international luxury train, whisking passengers across Europe to Istanbul from 1883 to 1977. LEGO’s homage to this majestic experience invites builders to relive the Golden Age of travel in 2,540 pieces.

Image via LEGO

Not missing a detail, the LEGO Ideas Orient Express model captures the train’s main locomotive, tender, dining and sleeping cars.

Image via LEGO

This brick-built masterpiece is the brainchild of Thomas Lajon, a 27-year-old LEGO fan hailing from Paris. His train concept was set in motion after receiving 10,000 votes from the public to transform it into a real set.

“I have always been a great fan of locomotives, sailing ships and ocean liners. As a child, I collected everything related to them,” Lajon tells LEGO. When his girlfriend encouraged him to rekindle his interest in LEGO bricks, she also nudged him into constructing his own train kit.

“Obviously, I chose to make the Orient Express,” he recalls. “A sumptuous French train, at the heart of many stories.”

Image via LEGO

Removable roofs reveal intricate interiors, while eight LEGO minifigures, including a conductor, chef, staff, and passengers, add life to the scene. Plus, decorations from the train’s original route adorn the set.

Image via LEGO

The LEGO Ideas Orient Express Set is set to launch on December 1, just in time for the holiday season. Priced at US$299.99, it will be available in LEGO stores and online. If you’re fascinated by the romantic era of travel, it’s about time to get into gear.