Enter a World of Luxury Onboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

By Railbookers Monday, January 2, 2023 Read time: 3 minutes

Belmond's Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a first-hand experience of the luxury and opulence of the 'Golden Age of Train Travel'.

Those looking to experience all the luxury and opulence of the ‘Golden Age of Train Travel’ first-hand need look no further than Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The current-day luxury rail line travelling between London and Paris, Venice, Rome, and Verona features all the luxurious accommodations, world-class cuisine, and romantic mystery of days past.

The original ‘Orient Express’ is arguably the most famous train in history, and from its inaugural ride in 1883 to the setting for books and movies over the years – including the recently released Murder on the Orient Express, based on the classic Agatha Christie mystery – the allure and mystery of this train experience continue to this day. Riders are transported to another world among the wood-panelled interiors, sumptuous upholstery, and antique fixtures of the onboard restaurants, bars, and staterooms. Dress in your formal wear for a romantic pre-dinner toast in the Champagne Bar followed by a delicious four-course dinner in the Dining Car. Feel like you’re the main character in the latest instalment of an intriguing story onboard the train.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Venice vacation begins with a night in London discovering the vibrant capital city. The following morning travellers check in at London Victoria station for the first leg of the journey on the classic British Pullman train. Be welcomed onboard by your friendly steward who will show you to your seat. Enjoy a delectable lunch and a welcome cocktail as the train meanders through the Kent countryside towards the coast for the Channel crossing. Board a luxury coach for the short hop under the English Channel, before climbing aboard the striking carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. You will be shown to your private compartment in the evening, and served an excellent four-course dinner. After your meal, retire to your cabin, now transformed into a cosy bedroom.

The following morning, breakfast is served in your compartment as the journey continues through the Swiss Alps. Discover the amazing views out the window as you make your way into Italy. Lunch is served in one of the opulent restored restaurant cars as the stunning scenery of the Italian Dolomites passes by. Later, a traditional afternoon tea will be served in your compartment. As the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon it will shortly arrive at Santa Lucia station, signalling the end of the journey and your arrival in the magical city of Venice.

Upon your arrival in Venice, spend two days exploring this romantic city full of history and culture. Enjoy a ride on a gondola and admire the city's architecture from the water. Marvel at the Basilica in the Piazza San Marco, including its iconic Clock Tower. In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious lunch or dinner at one of the city's many traditional trattorias, spending blissful hours indulging with local Prosecco by the sparkling canals.